Luke Bryan will host the upcoming 2022 CMA Awards with one impressive co-host: NFL star Peyton Manning! The news was announced when Bryan was serving as a guest co-host with Ryan Seacrest, on Live! With Kelly and Ryan.

“Being a part of such a historical night that honors my peers and country music is such a privilege,” says Bryan. “When I was asked if Peyton Manning was someone I would consider co-hosting with I didn’t hesitate. We have become great friends through the years and what he brings to the table is gonna make it even more of a blast. I know he’s been to the CMA Awards before, but he’s never been with me. Hey Peyton, I hope you’re ready for the night of your life!”

“I cannot wait to head to Nashville and take the CMA Awards stage alongside my friend Luke Bryan,” adds Manning. “I am such a huge fan of country music, so to have the chance to stand among so many incredibly talented artists is an absolute honor.”

Bryan also announced the news in a video shared on YouTube, while also promoting the upcoming CMA Fest TV special, which airs on ABC on Wednesday, August 3.

“I also have some really big news, and I just couldn’t wait to tell you, I’m coming back to host the CMA Awards live, November 9, on ABC, and I’m bringing a friend of mine to co-host with me,” Bryan said.

The Country Music Association is already eager to have the two superstars helm the show together.

“Country Music’s Biggest Night will without a doubt live up to its expectation this year,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “During an evening when we celebrate the best of the best in Country Music, we are thrilled to have two award-winning hosts at the helm! I cannot wait to see what Luke and Peyton have up their sleeves, which I’m sure will be hilariously unpredictable and playfully energetic, just like the two of them.”

“Just when we thought we couldn’t top Luke’s explosive energy and signature charm as host of last year’s CMA Awards, we’re bringing him back alongside sports legend Peyton Manning for Country Music’s biggest night,” adds Rob Mills, Walt Disney Television Executive Vice President, Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment. “Their dynamic chemistry and magnetic friendship is the perfect anchor for this year’s star-studded show.”

Bryan also hosted the CMA Awards ceremony in 2021.

“The CMA Awards is one of the biggest nights of the year for country music,” Bryan said at the time. “Being asked to host the CMA Awards was definitely something I put a lot of thought into before answering. The pressure that comes along with that can be overwhelming, but knowing I get to help honor and celebrate so many of my friends, I knew it was something I couldn’t turn down. I mean, growing up in Georgia, I remember watching Vince Gill, Reba, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Rogers, Barbara Mandrell, to name a few. They were so good.

“And then becoming a part of this amazing country music family and sitting on the front row while Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Darius Rucker took the reins, all of these artists are heroes and friends, and I am honored to have my name included in this group,” he added. “I’m looking forward to making it fun and memorable and using this platform to continue to make country music shine.”

The 2022 CMA Awards will air live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, November 9, at 8:00 PM ET on ABC.

Bryan is currently on his Raised Up Right Tour. His latest single, “Country On,” is at radio now. Find music and tour dates at LukeBryan.com.