Carrie Underwood steps down as host of CMAs after 12 years: 'It’s time to pass the hosting torch'

The country singer took to social media to announce her decision and reflected on over a decade of memories as CMA host

PUBLISHED DEC 31, 2019

Carrie Underwood at the 54th Academy Of Country Music Awards on April 7, 2019, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Getty Images)

Beloved country singer Carrie Underwood took to social media on December 31 to announce that she would no longer be helming the Country Music Awards after 12 consecutive years as its host, adding that it was time to "pass the hosting torch".

The grateful 'Jesus Take The Wheel' singer went on to thank everyone involved with the show, but also left the door open to possibly hosting the CMAs again in the future — you can read her full post on Instagram here and a full transcript is also available below.

(L-R) Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Dolly Parton perform during the 53rd annual CMA Awards at the Music City Center on November 13, 2019, in Nashville, Tennessee (Getty Images)

Here's what Carrie Underwood posted after pulling out as host of the CMAs.

"One of the highlights of 2019 and of my entire career so far was being on stage with the legends that are Reba and Dolly Parton. I’m so proud that we could celebrate the incredible female artists that are part of the legacy of country music, past, present and future, and I’m thankful for the huge audiences all over the world that tuned in to see it."

The singer reflected on over a decade of being in the "host seat" but decided it was ultimately time to move on to better things.

"It’s hard to believe that it was my 12th year hosting and I will always treasure every show, from the 11 that I was so lucky to do with my partner in crime and friend for life, Brad Paisley, to sharing the stage with two of my all-time heroes. I’m so incredibly grateful to everyone involved with the CMA Awards all these years. It’s hard to imagine topping what we have accomplished together, so I’ve decided that it’s time to pass the hosting torch (at least for now!) to others that will cherish it and honor it as much as I do. I’ve got so many exciting things coming in the new year and beyond, and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for all of us. #blessed #MemorableMoments."

Fans have been incredibly supportive of Carrie Underwood's decision to no longer host, and have been posting thousands of thank yous and farewell messages to accompany the singer's post. Among the many things that will be missed about Underwood are "her funny jokes, her silly songs with Brad Paisley and her beautiful dresses," according to one fan. We wish Carrie all the best in her new endeavors for 2020 and beyond!