MTV will honor George Michael during the 2026 VMAs with performances by RAYE, Sombr, and Teddy Swims. Some fans say the lineup should include out queer artists closely associated with Michael’s legacy.
MTV announced a George Michael tribute at the 2026 VMAs featuring RAYE, Sombr, and Teddy Swims.
The tribute coincides with upcoming George Michael releases, including a live Faith Tour album and a feature concert film.
# What happened MTV revealed that the 2026 Video Music Awards will include a tribute to George Michael. The performers named for the tribute are RAYE, Sombr, and Teddy Swims. The segment is scheduled to take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles during the awards ceremony.
# Why people are upset
# Notes on the announced performers RAYE: A British singer-songwriter nominated at the VMAs this year. Queerty points out that she is an accomplished vocalist and that some of her work, including a collaboration with Mark Ronson, contains queer-leaning lyrics. RAYE has not publicly labeled her sexuality, according to the reporting.
Sombr and Teddy Swims: Both were announced as contributors to the tribute. Teddy Swims is a previous VMA nominee. Sombr is also a nominated artist at this year's awards. The announcement places them alongside RAYE as the official performers for the George Michael tribute.
# Context and timing Faith era: a live Faith Tour album due in November and a feature-length concert film, George Michael: The Faith Tour, set for December. The timing aligns with both the 10th anniversary of Michael's death and the 40th anniversary of his solo debut, Faith, which anchors the cultural relevance of the tribute.
# Examples of fan reaction Social posts shared in response to the lineup included direct suggestions for alternate performers and calls for out queer artists specifically. Some fans reposted clips of Adam Lambert paying tribute to George Michael at past events to argue he would have been a suitable choice. Others defended the announced lineup, noting RAYE's British connection to Michael and praising her vocal ability.
# What to watch for at the VMAs
# Bottom line MTV set out to honor George Michael on a major awards stage, but the selection of RAYE, Sombr, and Teddy Swims has prompted debate about representation and who should speak to Michael's legacy. The tribute's execution and any unexpected appearances will likely shape how the moment is judged once the ceremony airs.
"out of anyone that could really speak to the importance of george michael in culture... these are the acts you choose??" View Entire Post ›
RAYE, Sombr and Teddy Swims will perform at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, as fans suggest alternatives including Sam Smith and Troye Sivan. The post VMAs George Michael tribute line-up sparks backlash over lack of out queer performers appeared first on PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ ne
There was a George Michael tribute on the VMAs tonight. It makes sense. Michael was an MTV icon, one of the most important artists of the network's first decade, so any time they want to honor him, they should. The post VMAs 2026: Sombr, Sombr, Teddy Swims, & Adam Lambert Pay Tribute To George Michael appeared first on
Nirvana will receive the Video Vanguard award at this year's ceremonies, while George Michael will be honored with an all-star tribute.
The stars performed a medley of late singer's biggest hits, joined by up-and-coming U.K. artists Meek and Saint Harison
Yes, there is a lot of choice with music.. You name some good artists there…
Loading more related stories...
Open the app view to save this story, compare related coverage, and continue from the same source.