The Country Music Awards are in search of a new host.
The title has belonged to Carrie Underwood for the past 12 years, usually with Brad Paisley by her side. Together, the pair became synonymous with the awards show, which recognizes the best in country and western music.
But when the CMAs return for their 53rd edition in April, neither musician will be on stage…
Paisley was not part of the hosting team this year, which constituted the all-female line-up of Underwood, Dolly Parton, and Reba McEntire, and it now seems as though the American Idol winner is following suit.
Following her 60 gig Cry Pretty 360 tour, which recently concluded, Underwood has decided to give up her hosting duties — at least for the time being.
“One of the highlights of 2019 and of my entire career so far was being on stage with the legends that are Reba and Dolly Parton,” the “Jesus Take the Wheel” singer wrote on Instagram. “I’m so proud that we could celebrate the incredible female artists that are part of the legacy of country music, past, present and future, and I’m thankful for the huge audiences all over the world that tuned in to see it.”
“It’s hard to believe that it was my 12th year hosting, and I will always treasure every show, from the 11 that I was so lucky to do with my partner-in-crime and friend for life, Brad Paisley, to sharing the stage with two of my all-time heroes,” Carrie went on to say.
“I’m so incredibly grateful to everyone involved with the CMA Awards all these years. It’s hard to imagine topping what we have accomplished together, so I’ve decided that it’s time to pass the hosting torch (at least for now!) to others that will cherish it and honor it as much as I do. I’ve got so many exciting things coming in the new year and beyond, and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for all of us.”
The 2020 Country Music Awards will take place on April 5th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
