The 2020 CMA Awards have had some unexpected last-minute changes, after two more of the scheduled performers for the live broadcast, Rascal Flatts and musician Jenee Fleenor, both tested positive for COVID-19.
“Hey Y’all, we wanted to let you guys know that we have received a positive COVID test within the band,” the trio shared on social media. “As much as we were looking forward to performing at the CMA Awards tonight, we will no longer be attending in the interest of everyone’s safety. We miss y’all and stay safe!”
Hey Y’all, we wanted to let you guys know that we have received a positive COVID test within the band. As much as we were looking forward to performing at the CMA Awards tonight, we will no longer be attending in the interest of everyone’s safety. We miss y’all and stay safe! pic.twitter.com/dEd21kzCoj
— Rascal Flatts (@rascalflatts) November 12, 2020
Jenee, who was supposed to be part of the star-studded Charlie Daniels tribute that kicked off the show, also shared the news on social media as well.
“Hey y’all! I’m so sorry to inform you I won’t be playing the CMAs tonight. Unfortunately I tested positive for…yeah you guess it…’Rona. I am thankfully feeling just fine, just bummed of course. I’m absolutely honored the CMAs asked me to perform on the Charlie Daniels tribute and I was so looking forward to putting on sparkly clothes …. and sawin’ my heart out for Charlie Daniels.
💔💔💔 @CountryMusic pic.twitter.com/XSbBOxqFdo
— Jenee Fleenor (@JeneeMusic) November 12, 2020
“I reckon it’s just another bump in the road of 2020 and as the saying goes, ‘the show must go on,'” she continued. “I hope you tune in – the CMAs have been working tirelessly to put on an amazing show! Love y’all so much & heck I might go put on my sparkly clothes anyway!”
Unfortunately, these aren’t the only two acts who had to cancel their performance because of coronavirus. Both Lee Brice and Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard also tested positive and were forced to miss the show.
Maren Morris picked up the first two awards of the night, both for Single of the Year and Song of the Year, for “The Bones.” Morgan Wallen won the CMA Award for New Artist of the Year.