CMT Awards 2025 canceled 2 years after moving to Austin. Here’s why

 CMT Awards 2025 canceled 2 years after moving to Austin. Here’s why

The 2025 Country Music Television (CMT) Awards have been canceled as a result of the merger between parent company Paramount Global and David Ellison's Skydance Media. The 2024 CMT Awards were held on April 7 at the Moody Center in Austin, marking the ceremony’s second consecutive year in the city.

PHOTOS: CMT Awards red carpet: Stars shine bright at Austin's Moody Center.

This cancellation is part of a broader decision by Paramount Global to pause several major events scheduled for early 2025. Other affected events include the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs), the Mexican edition of the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, and the MTV MIAWs, a Latin American music awards show formerly known as the MTV Millennial Awards. However, the company’s flagship events, including the Video Music Awards and Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, will continue as planned.

The news of the CMT Awards cancellation was shared in a memo from Paramount Global executive Bruce Gillmer, obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. In the memo, Gillmer stated that the merger presents an opportunity to “reimagine and optimize [their] events slate going forward.”

“Our world-class events remain a key component of Paramount’s music offering as we continue to raise the bar in delivering iconic, unforgettable performances and moments that drive pop culture,” Gillmer added. “We have the best team in the business, and we are grateful for your hard work and dedication in bringing these events to life.”

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