Lee Brice has tested positive for COVID-19 and will not be attending this year’s CMA Awards.
Brice, who was scheduled to perform with Carly Pearce at the 2020 CMAs on Wednesday (Nov. 11), was tested for the novel coronavirus ahead of the show. The country singer is “in good spirits and not experiencing any symptoms,” a representative told the Associated Press. Brice will be isolating at home until he’s cleared by a doctor, according to the statement from his rep.
A CMA spokesperson told the AP that Brice was tested and received his results before arriving onsite for any CMA rehearsals or events.
The CMA has described the 54th annual CMA Awards, to be held at Nashville’s Music City Center, as “the first time the biggest names in country music will come together — safely, all in one room — this year.”
“Although the show will feel a bit more intimate this year, we look forward to hosting our nominated artists and their guests as we celebrate the best of country music in a fully safe and physically distant environment,” CMA chief executive officer Sarah Trahern said. The show will not have its usual audience of fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brice and Pearce are nominated for their duet “I Hope You’re Happy Now” in the musical event of the year and music video of the year categories.
The 2020 CMA Awards,hosted by Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker, will air on ABC at 8 p.m. ET on Nov. 11.