Peyton Manning, Luke Bryan to host Country Music Association Awards

Aug. 4—It's a major score for the Country Music Association Awards.

NFL great Peyton Manning and country music star Luke Bryan will host the live CMA Awards ceremony in Nashville this November, organizers announced Monday.

"I cannot wait to head to Nashville and take the CMA Awards stage alongside my friend Luke Bryan," Manning, 46, said in a statement. "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, 46, is no stranger to the CMA Awards, having won entertainer of the year at the 2014 and 2015 ceremonies. He hosted the award show last year.

The first-time host Manning also owns his fair share of trophies as a two-time Super Bowl champion and five-time NFL Most Valuable Player. The retired quarterback passed for 71,940 yards and 539 touchdowns during his 18 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, which both rank third in NFL history.

Manning played college football at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, located about 180 miles east of Nashville.

"Being a part of such a historical night that honors my peers and Country Music is such a privilege," said Bryan, whose songs include "Country Girl" and "Kick the Dust Up."

"When I was asked if Peyton Manning is someone I would consider co-hosting with, I didn't hesitate," the singer said. "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."

The show is scheduled to take place Nov. 9 at the Bridgestone Arena and will air on ABC.

Bryan is a judge on ABC's "American Idol," while Manning co-stars on a weekly alternate "Monday Night Football" broadcast with brother Eli Manning on the sister network ESPN. Manning also headlines the NFL documentary series "Peyton's Places" on ESPN+.

Will Carpenter is the Wyoming Tribune Eagle's Arts and Entertainment/Features Reporter. He can be reached by email at wcarpenter@wyomingnews.com or by phone at 307-633-3135. Follow him on Twitter @will_carp_.