Fans have labelled the George Michael tribute at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards 'terrible' and 'disappointing', with many criticising the decision not to give Adam Lambert more stage time.
The late pop icon was honoured with a tribute performance celebrating his legacy ahead of the 40th anniversary of his album Faith. Raye, Sombr, Teddy Swims, and surprise guest Adam Lambert performed a series of his biggest songs, including Faith, Father Figure, I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me), Careless Whisper, and Freedom! '90.
Fans take to social media to vent frustration
Viewers expressed their disappointment on social media, with many arguing that Lambert should have been given a larger role. One fan, Ifntspirit, wrote on X: 'That George Michael tribute really didn't do much to honour his artistry or legacy at all tbh and I know I'm not biased when I say Adam Lambert walking out to sing Freedom instantly gave it some much-needed life. Disappointed that his part was so short, should have just been him.'
They continued: 'I knew Adam would come out and show everybody up and also George deserved a better tribute.'
Dazzle715 added: 'They should've just had Adam Lambert do the entire George Michael tribute because he's the only one who really captured his essence, his voice, and his electric presence. Amazing choice there.'
TinoTawk echoed: 'Love the tribute to George Michael but Adam should have sang all the songs.'
Pedces slammed: 'I guess MTV really hated George Michael, each performer doing a more dreadful job than the previous, why didn't they let Adam Lambert do the whole thing?'
Others went as far as describing it as a 'dive bar karaoke performance.' JesusArellanoT shared a gif of pop star Adele looking confused and annoyed, writing: 'George Michael from beyond watching the tribute they're giving him at the #VMAs.'
Some fans defend the tribute
There were some fans of the show, however, with The_LadyLyd saying: 'I think all the performers did great. I'm a massive GM fan. Rarely do I enjoy people covering his songs. The tribute tonight is getting a lot of hate (except for Adam).. I don't get it. It was upbeat and so nice to have his songs playing for fresh ears. To each their own I guess.'
ShadBeanz added: 'Didn't bet on a George Michael tribute by age 20-30 somethings going this hard but they rocked that s***.' Shayborninmay thought: 'This George Michael tribute was good!!!!'
Elsewhere, VMAs viewers hailed the tribute to late country icon Dolly Parton as 'moving' and 'perfect.' In her first performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, country singer Kacey Musgraves honoured the late icon with a performance of her hit song I Will Always Love You. The tribute included clips of Parton speaking as well as images from throughout her career.
Fans praised the performance as a 'beautiful tribute', with @joyverse8 writing: 'The Dolly Parton tribute… so many goosebumps… THE TEARS.' While @BpDaniel97 added: 'Alright that Dolly Parton tribute got me.'
