The 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony was rocked by an unforgettable moment of confusion when legendary singer Cher, 79, made a significant error while presenting one of the night's most prestigious awards.
Award Announcement Mix-Up
Cher was tasked with revealing the winner of the Record of the Year category, which ultimately went to Kendrick Lamar and SZA for their collaborative track titled 'Luther'. However, the presentation did not proceed smoothly. As Cher approached the microphone to announce the victors, she encountered immediate technical difficulties, exclaiming to the audience, "And the Grammy goes to....Oh! They told me it was gonna be on the prompter."
Confusion Between Song and Artist
Realising the winning information was contained within the envelope she held, Cher attempted to read it aloud. This led to further confusion when she announced the winner as Luther Vandross rather than the song 'Luther'. Luther Vandross, the celebrated R&B singer, passed away in 2005, making the error particularly noticeable.
Fortunately, Kendrick Lamar and SZA quickly understood the mistake referred to their winning song and proceeded to the stage to accept their award amidst the awkward moment. Social media immediately erupted with reactions to the blunder, with one user commenting, "I know Cher did not just say Luther Vandross", while another noted, "Cher was a mess. First she walked off, forgetting she had to present record of the year then she said Luther Vandross."
Additional Presentation Mishap
This was not Cher's only misstep during the evening's proceedings. Earlier in the ceremony, the singer had walked off stage before actually announcing the Record of the Year winner, requiring her to return to complete her presenting duties. Despite these awkward moments, many fans expressed sympathy and amusement online, with one writing, "She's so lost poor Cher."
Redemption Through Lifetime Achievement
The night concluded on a high note for Cher personally, as she was honoured with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. During her acceptance speech, she reflected on her lengthy career, stating, "I knew what I wanted to be when I was five years old, and I was famous at 19, and had a top rated show in my twenties, actually."
She continued with words of encouragement for aspiring artists, saying, "The thing I want to tell you, the only thing I wanted you to take away with you, and I've been in this business. Never give up on your dream, no matter what happens. Live it, be it, and if it's not happening now, it will happen soon."
While the award presentation gaffe provided memorable entertainment for viewers, Kendrick Lamar and SZA ultimately received proper recognition for their musical achievement, and Cher's career was celebrated with one of the recording industry's highest honours.
