VMAs George Michael tribute line-up sparks backlash over lack of out queer performers
George Michael (Getty Images)
MTV VMAs organisers have announced a George Michael tribute for Sunday’s ceremony, but the choice of performers has prompted online backlash from fans who wanted out queer artists to honour the late gay pop icon.
The tribute will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with RAYE, Sombr and Teddy Swims named as the acts performing.
The announcement quickly became a talking point online, with some viewers questioning why out queer performers were not booked to celebrate Michael’s legacy on one of pop’s biggest stages.
One post on X argued: “If I were booking talent for a George Michael tribute I’d find a gay guy that can sing down. But maybe that’s just me!” Other fans suggested alternative names including Sam Smith, Adam Lambert and Troye Sivan.
One said under the Instagram announcement: “Hire queer musicians to honour a queer legend.” A second wrote: “No queer artists… really?
Why the tribute is happening now
The VMAs tribute arrives almost 10 years after Michael died on Christmas Day in 2016. It also lands in a year framed around the 40th anniversary of his debut solo album, Faith.
A live album titled George Michael: The Faith Tour is due for release in November, followed by a feature-length film titled George Michael: The Faith Tour in December.
RAYE and Sombr are also nominated for awards at this year’s VMAs, while Teddy Swims is a previous nominee.
George Michael’s queer legacy
Michael rose to fame in Wham! before becoming a global solo superstar. He came out as gay in the late 1990s and became a prominent figure in LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream pop.
He remains closely associated with era-defining hits including ‘Faith’, ‘Freedom! ’90’, ‘Careless Whisper’ (with Wham!), and ‘Outside’.
His public life was marked by intense tabloid scrutiny, which he later pushed back against through his music and interviews.
He died in 2016 aged 53.
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