Grammy winner Lainey Wilson is hosting the 59th annual CMA Awards tonight. The country icon says she received more guidance from Reba McEntire than she expected. Ahead of the November 19 broadcast from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, Wilson reached out to McEntire, who has hosted the ceremony five times, hoping for a simple tip before stepping onstage.
Getty“I’m just proud, and I feel just so much joy. I mean, it’s a big deal. It’s some big ol’ shoes to fill,” Wilson, 33, said during a press conference on November 16, as per People. “I don’t take it lightly.”
Wilson recalled texting McEntire the night before. “I texted Reba last night, and I said, ‘If you had one piece of advice to give me going into this week, what would it be?’”
She expected a quick, warm answer. Instead, she got a full rundown. “She sent me a list,” Wilson said with a laugh. “I was like, ‘Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. One piece of advice!’”
The Host Leads This Year’s Top Nominees and Will Also Perform
In addition to hosting, Wilson is one of tonight’s top nominees. She earned six nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, which she previously won in 2023. She will also take the stage to perform during the ceremony.
“I grew up watching the CMA Awards like it was the Super Bowl, so to be hosting for a second year is a true honor,” Wilson said in a statement, per People.
“I’m humbled that CMA has trusted me with this role, and I can’t wait to love on this genre that has given me so much.”
GettyWilson shares the most nominations of the night with Megan Moroney and Ella Langley, who also earned six nods. Zach Top follows with five nominations, while Riley Green and Cody Johnson earned four each.
Presenters, Performers, and Special Guests Set for Tonight’s Show
GettyThe Country Music Association has lined up an extensive list of presenters and special guests. Tonight’s presenters include:
- Billy Ray Cyrus and Elizabeth Hurley
- Lady A
- Alison Brown
- Jessica Capshaw
- Lauren Daigle
- Jordan Davis
- Bert Kreischer
- Brandon Lake
- Ella Langley
- Steve Martin
- Leanne Morgan
- NE-YO
- Chris O’Donnell
- Kimberly Perry
- LeAnn Rimes
- Alan Ritchson
- Lara Spencer
- Billy Bob Thornton
- Grace Van Patten
- Gretchen Wilson
- Bailey Zimmerman
The performer list is equally stacked. Newly added acts include Keith Urban and Little Big Town.
GettyPreviously announced performers include Langley, Kelsea Ballerini, BigXthaPlug, Brandi Carlile, Kenny Chesney, Luke Combs, Riley Green, Miranda Lambert, Patty Loveless, Megan Moroney, Old Dominion, The Red Clay Strays, Shaboozey, Chris Stapleton, Zach Top, Tucker Wetmore, Wilson, and Stephen Wilson Jr.
Lauren Alaina and HaleyyBaylee will host CMA Awards Backstage Live on TikTok, sharing behind-the-scenes clips from the red carpet and throughout the night.
A Special Tribute and What Viewers Can Expect Tonight
The ceremony will also honor Vince Gill with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. A tribute performance is planned for the celebration.
Competing for Entertainer of the Year are Wilson, Cody Johnson, Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, and Morgan Wallen. With the night’s strongest contenders, returning favorites, and multiple first-time nominees, fans can expect a packed show.
The 59th annual CMA Awards air live tonight, November 19, on ABC and will stream the next day on Hulu.
