This year’s CMT Awards were suspended during the upcoming merger with parent company, Paramount Global’s David Ellison’s Skydance Media.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, the merger scheduled to close in the first half of the year caused the company to suspend at many events in the first half of 2025.
Other cancelled events include the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAS), Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards Mexico, and MTV MIAWS (formerly known as the MTV Millennial Awards). .
Unaffected awards ceremonies include VMAS and Kids’ Choice Awards.
Why is the CMT Award cancelled?
The news comes from Paramount Global Executive Bruce Gilmer, a memo sent to staff obtained by the Hollywood Reporter.
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He said the company will have the opportunity to “rethink and optimize future event slates” in the face of the merger.
“Our world-class events continue to be an important part of Paramount’s music offering. We continue to raise the bar by offering iconic and unforgettable performances and moments that drive pop culture. ” continued Gilmer.
“We have the best team in the business and we appreciate the hard work and dedication to bringing these events to life.”
Tennessee, part of the USA Today network, reached Paramount for comment.
2025 CMT Awards Cancellation Suspends Long Term Status
The 2025 CMT Awards suspension has halted the awards show’s status as one of the longest-running country music ceremonies. CMTS began in 1967 and appeared on the scene just a year after ACM was founded in 1966.
The awards show was originally called the Music City News Award and was rebranded in 2005 after the ceremony moved to CMT.
More details: Jerry Roll wins big at the 2024 CMT Music Awards and other top moments
The fan-voted award celebrates the best music videos and television performances in country music.
Last year’s top honor went to Jerry Roll. Jerry Roll took home three trophies and won this year’s video for “Needs A Favor,” Male Video of the Year and CMT Performance of the Year.
Audrey Gibbs is a Tennessee music reporter. You can contact her at [email protected].