September 6, 2011 | Celeb Watch

Freddie Mercury remembered

Yesterday was Queen frontman Freddie Mercury's birthday; he would have been 65.

In honor of his influence on music and culture, Google released an animated minute-and-a-half "Google doodle" on its homepage.

“It has a lot of fun, goofy stuff to celebrate what an incredible song writer, fashion icon, and musical innovator he was,” said Doodle team creative leader Ryan Germick. “We just love him; we've been blasting Queen for the last couple of months and it is always joyful.”

Queen guitarist Brian May praised the video, writing: “He devoured life. He celebrated every minute. And, like a great comet, he left a luminous trail which will sparkle for many a generation to come.”

Because yesterday was Labor Day in North America, the tribute will be released in the US today.

Car maker Lotus has also paid tribute to Mercury, donating a specially-made Evora S for a charity auction, the proceeds from which will go to HIV AIDS charity fund, Mercury Phoenix Trust. 

“We were only too happy to contribute to this fantastic cause,” said Group Lotus Director of Corporate Operations Gino Rosato. “We have created something very special to raise money for Mercury Phoenix Trust and we hope the car goes to a collector who really enjoys it.”

Mercury, who was gay, died of an AIDS-related illness in 1991.