The Country Music Association is speaking out after Sammy Kershaw revealed he was not allowed to walk the red carpet at this year’s 2026 CMA Awards. Kershaw shared a lengthy post on social media last week, revealing that the CMA had denied him access to this year’s carpet, a decision that drew public scrutiny from numerous country artists, including Riley Green, Carly Pearce, Mark Chesnutt, Terri Clark, and others.
“In recent days, several artists and their fans have spoken out about this year’s CMA Awards red carpet guidelines, the statement begins. “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.
“Our organization’s mission is to honor the history and celebrate the excellence of Country Music,” CMA continues. “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 CMA statement, shared on their social media platforms, concludes by saying that they are willing to keep the dialogue open, and are also in talks with Kershaw to find a solution.
“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 statement concludes. “To that point, we are in touch with Sammy Kershaw’s team and look forward to continuing that conversation.”
View this post on Instagram
What Sammy Kershaw Says About Being Denied the Ability to Walk the Red Carpet At the CMA Awards
Kershaw shared the disappointing news several days ago, admitting he was heartbroken over the decision.
“I have to share my disappointment with the CMA as they have denied my request to walk the red carpet for a few minutes at this year’s CMA Awards, and I have to say I’m pretty sad about it,” he said in part.
“After more than 50 years in this business, many millions of records and singles streamed and sold, more than two dozen Billboard charted hits, a CMA Horizon Award nomination, being a lifetime CMA member, that they presented to me in 1992, and being asked to donate my time to play CMA Fest, I would hope I’ve earned the opportunity to walk the red carpet alongside my wife, as we’ve done before,” he continued.
Kershaw concluded by saying, “I love country music, but never in a million years would I think that a successful country music entertainer (and I’m not the only one) would not be able to walk the red carpet,” he concludes. “It’s extremely hurtful, embarrassing and very disappointing. I guess the next time I attend the CMA’s, it will be in tribute after I’m gone, if I’m lucky.”
The 2026 CMA Awards will air live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, November 18, at 8:00 PM ET on ABC.