Broadway composer-lyricist Michael Friedman, 41, dies of AIDS

Michael Friedman, the celebrated composer and lyricist of theatrical works, including "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson", has died. He was 41.

Friedman passed away following the complications related to HIV/AIDS, reported Variety.

The Public Theatre, where Friedman was an artist in residence and director of the Public Forum, announced the news. The Public Theatre is also where "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson" made its New York premiere in 2009, before hitting Broadway the next year.

"Michael Friedman was one of the most brilliant, multi- talented theatre artists of our time. He was also a miracle of a human being: loving, kind, generous, hilarious, thrilling. His loss leaves a hole in the theatre world that cannot be filled, and a hole in the hearts of those who loved him that will last forever," Public Theatre artistic director Oskar Eustis said in a statement.

"Michael brought so much joy and beauty and humour to our lives. To lose him so soon is devastating. We are so grateful to the people who loved him, made art with him, and were so supportive of his work, and made it possible for Michael's extraordinary gifts to reach so many people," added his sister Marion Friedman Young.

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