The 2026 MTV VMAs just got a whole lot more emotional. RAYE, SOMBR and Teddy Swims are joining forces for a George Michael tribute, with Adam Blackstone serving as music director. The performance lands just before the 10th anniversary of Michael’s death on Christmas Day 2016, making Sunday’s show a genuine full-circle moment for fans.
The timing lines up with a wave of new George Michael projects. HisFaith Tourlive album arrives Nov. 6, and the accompanying film hits U.S. theaters Dec. 11. There’s also the small matter of“Last Christmas”reaching No. 2 just this past December, proof that his catalog keeps finding new audiences year after year. Producer Van Toffler says all three performers are longtime fans, calling it a killer moment to recognize those great songs.
And the MTV connections run deep. Michael won the Video Vanguard Award in September 1989, presented by Madonna herself, who returns this year as the show’s opener and top nominee. Snoop Dogg hosts when the VMAs air Sunday, Sept. 27 on CBS, MTV and Paramount+. Which George Michael song are you hoping makes the tribute setlist? Let us know in the comments.
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Local Lawton
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