 Gary Barlow was called " inspirational , brave and a consummate professional " after performing despite losing his fourth child on 4 August . However , George Michael attracted some criticism for singing his new song " White Light " at the ceremony . Critics saw this as shameless promotion . Michael replied that it was his one chance to thank his supporters , which he didn 't regret . It was his first appearance since almost dying from pneumonia and " White Light " was about that experience . Appearances by Russell Brand , Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss were also seen as controversial , as their previous behaviour had not always reflected Olympic ideals . 
