Madonna Removes Luther Vandross Photo From AIDS Victim Tribute At The Request Of His Estate

Madonna has taken down a photo of singer Luther Vandross from an AIDS tribute segment of her Celebration tour after a request from his estate.

Throughout her tour, Madonna has paid tribute to renowned stars who have succumbed to AIDS through a heartfelt photo montage synchronized with her performance of “Live to Tell.”

However, at a recent tour stop in Sacramento, California, Vandross’ image was unexpectedly included in the montage, which caught the late singer-songwriter’s estate off guard.

A representative for Vandross’ estate clarified the situation, “Luther Vandross passed away in 2005 due to complications from a stroke suffered two years earlier… While we appreciate Madonna’s recognition of those lives lost to AIDS, Luther was NEVER diagnosed with AIDS or the HIV Virus. We’re not sure where she or her production team received false medical information claiming otherwise.”

Upon being informed by Vandross’ estate, Madonna’s management promptly took action to remove the image from the tour.

Luther Ronzoni Vandross Jr., a renowned American artist, made an indelible mark in the realm of soul and R&B music. His contributions as a singer, songwriter and record producer propelled him to great heights of success. With a career that spanned several decades, Vandross garnered 11 consecutive RIAA-certified platinum albums and a staggering global record sales figure that surpassed 40 million units. He died in 2005 at the age of 54.

Madonna’s Celebration tour commenced in October 2023 and presents a comprehensive setlist spanning over four decades, serving as a testament to the superstar’s illustrious career. The tour is currently ongoing and will continue until April 26.

Two weeks into the tour, singer Elton John expressed appreciation for Madonna’s continued efforts to speak up and raise awareness about AIDS and those who’ve died from the disease.

In a post written in a joint statement from his Elton John AIDS Foundation, John thanked Madonna and wrote, “With 39 million people living with HIV today, 9.4 million of whom are not currently on life-saving treatment, we must keep using our voices and platforms to ensure everyone has the opportunity to live full and healthy lives.”

Last week, Madonna made headlines when she fell out of a chair during a performance on the tour.

Last year, she was sued by two guests at her Brooklyn concert for starting the show two hours late.