George Michael’s music is set to be remembered once again as the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards pay tribute to the late singer with a special performance. The tribute comes 40 years after the release of his solo debut album Faith and nearly a decade after his death.
As the 2026 VMAs honor his music tonight, here is what is known about George Michael’s cause of death and the tribute planned for the singer. Michael died at age 53 on Christmas Day, December 25, 2016, at his home in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. The 2026 VMAs are airing live today, Sunday, September 27, from 7:30 to 9:30pm ET (4:30 to 6:30pm PT) on CBS, simulcast on MTV, and streaming on Paramount+ in the US. The 2026 VMAs mark the show’s 42nd edition and are being hosted by three-time VMA winner Snoop Dogg.
Because the cause of death was natural, the coroner said there was no need for an inquest. The singer’s former partner, Kenny Goss, had been quoted at the time saying, “I think his body just gave up. All these years, it was just weak. Singers Raye, Sombr and Teddy Swims are teaming up for the tribute performance, directed by Adam Blackstone.
He told The Sunday Mirror, “We just want closure, we want the funeral to happen, it’s been a long time now,” as cited by the BBC . Nearly a decade after his death, and 40 years since the release of his solo debut album “Faith,” the 2026 MTV VMAs are paying tribute to George Michael today.
