George Michael Tribute at MTV VMAs Draws Fan Backlash
Viewers criticized Teddy Swims' performance, with Adam Lambert later lauded for his rendition of 'Freedom! '90'.
A tribute to the late George Michael at the MTV Video Music Awards faced significant criticism from fans, particularly targeting Teddy Swims' performance of "Careless Whisper." Many viewers took to social media to express their disappointment, with some stating that Swims' rendition felt like he was "killing George Michael all over again." One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote that Swims was a "mess," according to the Daily Mail.
Performance Details
The segment, intended to honor Michael on the upcoming 10-year anniversary of his death, featured multiple artists. Swims, 34, was given the task of singing "Careless Whisper," a song from Michael's time in the duo Wham!. Meanwhile, Raye performed "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)," a duet Michael originally sang with Aretha Franklin. Sombr, whose real name is Shane Boose, covered Michael's hits "Faith" and "Father Figure" from his 1987 solo debut.
Surprise Guest Redeems Tribute
The widely criticized tribute was reportedly salvaged by a surprise appearance from Adam Lambert. Lambert performed a rendition of Michael's classic "Freedom! '90," which was met with a much more positive reception from the audience and online viewers. Other artists involved in the tribute included Saint Harison, MNEK, Meek, and Sombr.
George Michael died at the age of 53 from heart and liver problems, with his death occurring on Christmas. His public life was marked by challenges related to drug use.
In other VMA news, Taylor Swift was a dominant force at the awards, earning seven accolades and becoming the most decorated solo artist in the show's history. She won Video of the Year for "Fortnight" featuring Post Malone, Best Artist, Best Pop, Best Collaboration, Best Direction (co-directed by Swift), Best Editing, and Song of the Summer. However, Sabrina Carpenter took home Song of the Year for "Espresso."