A tribute to George Michael was staged at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, featuring performances by Raye, Sombr and Teddy Swims covering some of the late singer's biggest hits.
Adam Lambert made a surprise appearance to cap off the tribute, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Rolling Stone reported that the performers were also joined by up-and-coming U.K. artists Meek and Saint Harison during the medley.
George Michael, known for hits including "Faith," died on Christmas Day in 2016, according to Billboard.
How each side covered it
Left
- The Hollywood Reporter and Rolling Stone highlighted Adam Lambert's surprise appearance capping the tribute.
- Rolling Stone reported that U.K. artists Meek and Saint Harison joined the medley.
- USA Today and The Hollywood Reporter both named Raye, Sombr and Teddy Swims as performers.
“Surprise Adam Lambert Performance Caps Hit-Filled George Michael Tribute at 2026 VMAs” — The Hollywood Reporter
Center
- Billboard named Raye, Sombr, Teddy Swims and Adam Lambert as the performers.
- Billboard noted George Michael died on Christmas Day in 2016.
“The late pop icon died on Christmas Day in 2016.” — Billboard
Right
- Independent Journal Review described the tribute as star-studded but did not detail the performer lineup.
“VMAs Honor George Michael With Star-Studded Tribute” — Independent Journal Review
Questions readers ask
What happened at the 2026 VMAs involving George Michael?
Raye, Sombr, Teddy Swims and Adam Lambert performed a tribute medley of George Michael's biggest hits at the 2026 MTV VMAs, according to The Hollywood Reporter, USA Today and Rolling Stone.
Who performed in the George Michael tribute?
Raye, Sombr and Teddy Swims performed the tribute, with Adam Lambert making a surprise appearance, per The Hollywood Reporter. Rolling Stone reported that U.K. artists Meek and Saint Harison also joined.
When did George Michael die?
George Michael died on Christmas Day in 2016, according to Billboard.
What did coverage of the tribute focus on?
Left-leaning and center outlets emphasized the lineup of performers and the medley of hits, while a right-leaning outlet described the event broadly as a star-studded tribute.
Sources · 5 outlet reports
- Rolling StoneLeft-leaningRaye, Sombr, Teddy Swims, Adam Lambert Salute George Michael at MTV VMAs
- The Hollywood ReporterLeft-leaningSurprise Adam Lambert Performance Caps Hit-Filled George Michael Tribute at 2026 VMAs
- USA TodayLeft-leaningGeorge Michael honored at VMAs by Raye, Sombr, Teddy Swims
- BillboardCenterRAYE, Sombr, Teddy Swims & Adam Lambert Pay Tribute to George Michael at 2026 VMAs
- Independent Journal ReviewRight-leaningVMAs Honor George Michael With Star-Studded Tribute