The 2022 CMT Music Awards are tonight (April 11). The ceremony will start at 8/7c and will be broadcast on CBS.
Country singer Kelsea Ballerini and actor Anthony Mackie were set to co-host the event.
However, on the morning of the ceremony, Ballerini took to social media to share some bad news. In a video message, Ballerini revealed she tested positive for COVID-19 a few days prior:
“Alright friends, I have some bad news, and I have some good news. The bad news is that a couple days ago, I tested positive for COVID, and the CMT Awards are tonight. So, unfortunately, I cannot be there in person anymore, and I am devastated, I’m gutted.”
Ballerini said the good news is that she’s feeling better now. She is feeling well enough that she’ll still be able to co-host the awards remotely over video call.
Ballerini was also supposed to perform during the ceremony. Now, her performance will be done remotely as well.
CMT Music Awards: Kelsea Ballerini to Co-Host Remotely After Testing Positive for COVID-19 https://t.co/QZiKPHGCTK
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) April 11, 2022
Extra reports that Mackie will receive some backup from a new in-person co-host. Kane Brown has stepped up to fill Ballerni’s spot and help Mackie out.
Brown will fit into the role well, since he previously co-hosted the CMT Music Awards in 2020 and in 2021.
Head below to watch Ballerini’s video about why she had to step down from hosting the CMT Music Awards in person this year. Despite everything, she seems to be in good spirits and is looking forward to the show!