What the Grammys did to Cher is criminal

Elder abuse took the stage at the Grammy Awards Sunday.

Superstar Cher, 79, appeared dazed and confused as she appeared on stage to accept a lifetime achievement award. It was a truncated, odd moment in which host Trevor Noah thrust the award in her hand. No speech, no video homage. Cher gave a brief thanks.

She was then meant to give out Record of the Year, but, baffled about what to do, she awkwardly wandered off the stage.

She was lured back by Noah, who talked her into reading the winner — which was Kendrick Lamar and SZA for the song “Luthor.” Cher said the award was for “Luther Gandross.”

Now, the song is named after singer Luther Vandross, and samples his song “If the World Were Mine.” But Vandross died in 2005.

Lamar was magnanimous after having his big moment tarnished a bit by Cher, who complained that the TelePrompter didn’t provide info that might have saved her.

“This is what music is all about: Luther Vandross,” Lamar said. He turned to Cher and chuckled. I think in sympathy, but the audience members also laughed, and it seemed like Cher was being ridiculed, live on national television.

I blame the producers for putting the legendary singer and actress in this position in the first place. Why do you have someone come on stage to receive an award, give a speech — and then stay to give an award to someone else? No wonder she was confused.

The “Luthor” gaffe could happen to anyone, but maybe they could have briefed her better about the nominees?

If Cher agrees to appear on the Grammys ever again — a big IF — I suggest they honor her properly. No singing for your supper. Some proper stage direction. Heck, Kendrick can give her the award.

Shame on the Grammys for this disgraceful display.