The Country Music Association released a statement on Monday, November 9, following country music veteran Sammy Kershaw’s Instagram post revealing that he had been denied access to the red carpet at this year’s 60th Annual CMA Awards.
His post quickly sparked backlash from fans, who voiced their frustration over the decision. Several fellow country artists also weighed in, including Riley Green and Carly Pearce, both of whom appeared disappointed by the situation and questioned the apparent treatment of Kershaw, particularly considering his more than five decades in the country music industry.
CMA Responds After Sammy Kershaw Says He Was Denied Red Carpet Access at 60th Annual Awards
The Country Music Association has finally addressed the controversy after country artists Sammy Kershaw and Rodney Atkins said they were denied access to the red carpet at this year’s 60th Annual CMA Awards, scheduled for Wednesday, November 18.
“In recent days, several artists and their fans have spoken out about this year’s CMA Awards red carpet guidelines. Like any major televised event, the red carpet has criteria that exists to help manage limited space and the security needs for both the artists and the media. We are deeply sorry anyone felt excluded by those decisions,” the statement began.
“Our organization’s mission is to honor the history and celebrate the excellence of Country Music. With this 60th anniversary year, we are working extra hard to simultaneously spotlight the last six decades, while also celebrating what has been a tremendous year in 2026. It’s not easy to do all of that in just one night, but we are up for the challenge.”
The statement continued: “We also know this is about more than a red carpet, and we are committed to keep listening and keep finding ways to make sure all artists feel welcome and at home here.”
The CMA also confirmed that it had contacted Kershaw’s team “and look forward to continuing that conversation.”
Kershaw first addressed the situation in a lengthy Instagram post on Thursday, November 5, revealing that he had been refused access to the awards show’s red carpet. The country singer explained that he had even rearranged his touring schedule so he and his wife could attend the event.
“It’s extremely hurtful, embarrassing, and very disappointing,” Kershaw wrote. He went on to add, “I guess the next time I attend the CMAs it will be in tribute after I’m gone, if I’m lucky.”
His post prompted an outpouring of support from fellow country artists, including Riley Green, who expressed his disappointment in the comments, writing: “If you haven’t earned the right to be there then nobody has… disappointing to say the least.”
Following Kershaw’s remarks, another country star, Rodney Atkins, revealed that he had also been refused red carpet access, sharing his experience in a post on Instagram.
60th Annual CMA Awards to Celebrate the Legacy of ’90s Country Music
The red carpet controversy has drawn even more attention given that this year’s 60th Annual CMA Awards is set to celebrate the country artists who defined the 1990s and helped shape the genre throughout the decade.
“We’ll reach back some to the early days of the CMAs, but really, the hot artists today, their heroes are the stars of the ’90s. So the ability in this show to really focus on reaching back to there,” CMA CEO Sarah Trahern explained.
Kershaw enjoyed considerable success during the 1990s, scoring several hit singles, including “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “Third Rate Romance,” and “Cadillac Style.” With that track record, many believe the singer deserves recognition as part of the decade’s celebration, including the opportunity to walk the CMA Awards red carpet.
The ceremony will also feature a special tribute to country music legend Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25 at the age of 80. According to the CMA’s website, “The 60th Annual CMA Awards” will include a tribute honoring the country icon, whose influence and legacy have reached virtually every corner of entertainment and beyond.
Source: Various
