CMA, ABC RENEW THEIR VOWS

As we reported on Wednesday, ABC has re-upped with the Country Music Association in a broadcast agreement that will keep the CMA Awards, CMA Fest and CMA Country Christmas on the network through 2026.

The $22m-per-year deal includes programming on ABC, Hulu and Disney+.

“Continuing our long-standing relationship with CMA is a top priority and opportunity—together, we bring unforgettable experiences to our audiences that capture the heart and soul of the country music community,” said Rob Mills, EVP of Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment for Walt Disney Television. “We look forward to delivering many more memorable moments with celebrated icons as well as aspirational artists and are proud to be the home for these incredible and distinguished specials.”

CMA chief Sarah Trahern (pictured) was similarly effusive about the ongoing relationship of the two entities. “Over the past 15 years, we have built a true partnership with ABC, and we are thrilled to continue our relationship through 2026,” she confirmed.

“As television viewers are now consuming content in so many new and exciting ways, we are eager to work with the entire ABC team on creating additional paths to bring country music to audiences everywhere. As our genre continues to evolve and broaden, we look to this partnership as a key driver in expanding country music’s reach.”

The 2020 CMA Awards delivered ABC’s biggest Wednesday audience of the season, reaching more than 21m viewers and generating nearly 9m views across Facebook and Twitter.