The legacy of George Michael will take center stage at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, with a special tribute planned to honor the late music icon.
RAYE, SOMBR and Teddy Swims are set to come together for the tribute during the ceremony, which will take place Sunday, September 27, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Adam Blackstone will serve as the musical director for the performance.
The tribute comes nearly a decade after Michael’s death on Christmas Day in 2016 at age 53. Throughout his career, Michael established himself as a successful solo artist as well as one half of the legendary duo Wham!, leaving behind a catalog that helped define pop music for generations.
Michael also has a long history with the MTV Video Music Awards. He was a four-time VMA winner and received MTV’s prestigious Video Vanguard Award in 1989, recognizing his influence and accomplishments in music and music videos.
The 2026 tribute arrives during a significant year for Michael’s music. His landmark 1987 album Faith is marking its 40th anniversary, while the upcoming release of George Michael: The Faith Tour is bringing renewed attention to his career.
A live album titled George Michael: The Faith Tour is scheduled for release November 6, followed by a feature-length concert film of the same name in U.S. theaters beginning December 11.
For RAYE, the tribute will be part of her VMAs performance debut. The singer is also nominated for two awards this year, including Song of the Year for “Where Is My Husband!” SOMBR is a three-time nominee, while Teddy Swims is returning to the VMAs stage after previously performing at the ceremony in 2024.
The 2026 VMAs will be hosted by Snoop Dogg and will feature performances from several artists, including Madonna, who is also set to open the show. Other performers announced include Lisa, Shaboozey, Gunna, Yung Lean, Gener8ion and Sienna Spiro.
The ceremony will also include a tribute to Dolly Parton, with Kacey Musgraves set to honor the country music legend.
The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards will air live Sunday, September 27, at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT on CBS and MTV and will stream on Paramount+ in the United States.
George Michael’s upcoming tribute offers another opportunity for a new generation of artists and fans to celebrate the enduring music and influence of an artist whose career crossed pop, soul and dance music.
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