George Michael Tribute Set for the "2026 MTV Video Music Awards"

“VMAs” Will Simulcast on MTV and Stream on Paramount+

RAYE, SOMBR and TEDDY SWIMS to Honor Multi-Genre Phenom

CBS and MTV announced today that RAYE, SOMBR and TEDDY SWIMS will come together for a tribute performance to honor musical genius and icon George Michael during the 2026 MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS (“VMAs”). Hosted by Snoop Dogg, the “VMAs” will air Sunday, Sept. 27 (6:30-8:30 PM, CT) on the CBS Television Network, simulcast on MTV and streaming on Paramount+ (Premium) in the U.S. The show will also be available globally the next day on Paramount+ and MTV.

• The “VMAs” tribute to the global multi-genre icon, who remains one of the best-selling artists of all time, comes 40 years after his career-defining album, FAITH, and ahead of the worldwide release of George Michael: The Faith Tour live album (Nov. 6) and the feature-length film “George Michael: The Faith Tour” (in cinemas across the U.S. Dec. 11). A four-time “VMAs” winner, Michael was honored with the Video Vanguard Award in 1989. 

• RAYE will make her “VMAs” performance debut with a solo performance and as part of the tribute. The two-time “VMAs” winner is twice nominated this year, including for Song of the Year for “Where Is My Husband!” Following her own sold-out North American tour and release of critically acclaimed sophomore album This Music May Contain Hope, RAYE is currently on a stadium tour with Bruno Mars and will make her film debut in Yann Demange’s upcoming thriller, “Lineage.”

• SOMBR returns to the “VMAs” performance stage, while also nominated for three awards, including Song of the Summer and Best Alternative, which he won last year. He continues his breakout run with current chart-topping singles “Homewrecker” and “My Body Isn’t Ready.” He’ll next embark on his YOU ARE THE REASON global headline arena tour, kicking off Sept. 29 in Vancouver, B.C.

• TEDDY SWIMS returns to the “VMAs” stage for the first time since 2024 when he was also a four-time nominee. He just released his brand new single “Perfect Man” and announced his upcoming album UGLY to be released on Jan. 22, 2027. Teddy kicks off the U.S. leg of his arena tour, The UGLY Tour, tonight in Kansas City.

• Adam Blackstone will be music director for the tribute performance.

Additional performers, presenters and special guests to be revealed in the coming days. Follow @CBS, @MTV and @VMAs on social to keep up with all things #VMAs.

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