In one of the most emotional moments of the 2025 American Music Awards, Sir Rod Stewart was left visibly stunned — and deeply touched — when five of his children surprised him on stage to present him with the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award.
The legendary rocker, who turned 80 earlier this year, had just finished a powerful performance of his classic hit “Forever Young” when the stage lights dimmed, and a heartfelt video montage began playing. Clips from across his decades-long career — including iconic performances, family moments, and behind-the-scenes glimpses — filled the screen. But it was the appearance of his children that truly took his breath away.
👏 A Family Tribute Fit for a Legend
Liam Stewart, Renee Stewart, Kimberly Stewart, Ruby Stewart, and Sean Stewart walked on stage to thunderous applause, taking the music icon completely by surprise. As the crowd rose for a standing ovation, Rod stood with his jaw dropped, overcome with emotion.
“I wasn’t expecting this… from you lot!” he quipped, fighting back tears and embracing his children under the spotlight. It was a rare and tender family moment on one of music’s biggest stages — a full-circle tribute to a career that has spanned more than six decades.
🏆 A Humble Acceptance
Still overwhelmed, Rod took the microphone to thank his collaborators and fans throughout the years. “I’m absolutely flabbergasted. I didn’t know they were here — my children,” he said, his voice shaking slightly.
He went on to reflect on his humble beginnings, saying:
“I had this burning ambition to sing. That’s all I wanted to do. I didn’t want to be rich or famous. And here I am, a few years later, picking up this wonderful award.”
🎶 The Show Must Go On
Despite hints of slowing down, Rod Stewart isn’t quite ready to hang up the microphone. Earlier this year, he confirmed that while 2025 will mark the end of his large-scale world tours, he will continue performing in more intimate venues. Next month, he’s set to headline the Sunday teatime legends slot at Glastonbury, one of the festival’s most anticipated performances.
His most recent album, a collaboration with Jools Holland, was released in February 2024 and has received critical praise for its soulful arrangements and nostalgic flair.
🤯 5 Surprising Facts About Rod Stewart
Even after all these years, Sir Rod continues to surprise fans. Here are five facts that may still shock you:
- He performed to over 4 million people in Rio de Janeiro in 1994 — the largest free rock concert ever held.
- His biggest hit? “Maggie May”, released in 1971, which catapulted him to international stardom.
- Rod is a two-time cancer survivor, having overcome both thyroid and prostate cancer.
- His net worth is estimated at £179 million, a reflection of his enduring global success.
- In 2019, Rod and his son Sean made headlines after being arrested during a New Year’s Eve dispute with a hotel security guard in Florida. The incident ended with a guilty plea to “simple battery,” though no conviction was recorded.
💞 A Proud Moment for the Whole Family
Rod’s wife, Penny Lancaster, whom he married in 2007, shared her pride on social media. Posting a throwback photo of her husband, she wrote:
“So proud of my man – lifetime achievement award @amas.”
The couple share two sons, and Rod has six other children from previous relationships — many of whom have followed in his footsteps into the worlds of music, modeling, and entertainment.
🌟 A Legacy Still Growing
Rod Stewart’s AMAs moment was more than a tribute — it was a celebration of a life steeped in music, perseverance, and family. As he stood on that stage, surrounded by his children and applauded by peers and fans alike, it became clear: Rod Stewart isn’t just a rock legend. He’s a father, a survivor, and a symbol of staying power in an ever-changing industry.
And as he continues to perform, create, and inspire — there’s no doubt:
Rod Stewart is still forever young.
