Introduction
Rod Stewart Overwhelmed with Emotion Receiving Lifetime Achievement Award from His Children at the 2025 AMAs
On the night of May 26, 2025, a deeply emotional moment touched not only the audience but also legendary musician Rod Stewart himself. At this year’s American Music Awards (AMAs), the 80-year-old icon was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award—but what made the moment truly unforgettable was that five of his eight children were the ones who presented it to him.
Kimberly (45), Sean (44), Ruby (37), Renée (32), and Liam (30) took the stage under dazzling lights and thunderous applause to honor not only a musical legend, but their father—a man who remains the heart of their family.
Dressed in an elegant white suit, Rod Stewart embraced his children tightly, visibly surprised and moved:
“I’m completely stunned. I had no idea my kids were going to be here tonight,” he told the crowd, his voice filled with emotion.
He continued:
“I started singing simply because I had an intense love for it. Back in the early ’60s, before anyone knew who I was, all I wanted was to sing. I never chased fame or fortune. And now, all these years later, I’m here receiving this incredible award—it’s more than I ever dreamed of.”
Stewart also paid tribute to musical legends like Muddy Waters, David Ruffin, and Sam Cooke, whose influence helped shape his sound and career.
A Stirring Performance of “Forever Young”
Making his first appearance at the AMAs since 2004, Rod Stewart delivered a powerful performance of his 1988 hit “Forever Young.” Wearing a crisp white jacket and pinstriped trousers, the veteran artist brought fresh energy to the beloved classic. Midway through the song, he surprised the audience with a folk-inspired interlude that added depth and intimacy to the performance.
A Fitting Tribute to a Living Legend
Following the announcement of the award, Barry Adelman (Executive Vice President, Television) and Alexi Mazaras (Senior Vice President, Programming and Development) of Dick Clark Productions shared a statement:
“Sir Rod Stewart is a master showman whose charisma and energy have stood the test of time. He embodies the very soul of rock and roll.”
From playing harmonica on the streets of London in his youth to becoming one of the greatest artists in music history, Rod Stewart has lived a remarkable journey—not just as a performer, but as a father, husband, and source of inspiration.
And on this night at the AMAs 2025, with the proud gaze of his children beside him, Rod Stewart received not only the industry’s highest honor—but something far more meaningful: the love and recognition of his family.