Kelsea Ballerini has been diagnosed with COVID and will no longer appear in-person at the 2022 CMT Music Awards.
The news was revealed on social media by Ballerini just hours ahead of the show, which she is set to co-host with Anthony Mackie.
“Alright friends, I have some bad news and I have some good news,” the 28-year-old began. “A couple days ago, I tested positive for COVID and the CMT Awards are tonight, so, unfortunately, I cannot be there anymore in person and I am devastated.”
Trying to look on the bright side, Ballerini revealed that she will still co-host the show from home.
“I’m gutted, but the good news is that I’m feeling a lot better, a lot better and the incredible CMT family and my team have brought part of the CMT set to my house to my little bubble and set it up so I can host and perform,” the “Heartfirst” singer revealed. “It is certainly not what I expected or planned for but we are doing our damn best. So, I will still see you tonight on the awards and let’s make some lemonade together out of these very bitter lemons. Yeah, guys, I’m so sorry, but have so much fun for me if you’re going to the show and if you’re watching on TV, I will see you there.”
The 2022 CMT Music Awards will broadcast LIVE from Nashville on Monday, April 11th (8:00-11:00 PM LIVE ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network and is available to stream live and on-demand on Paramount+*.
