CMT announced that it will honor the cast of ABC’s groundbreaking series, “Nashville” with the inaugural “International Impact Award” during the “2015 CMT Artists of the Year” special, the definitive year end party, live from Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville on Wednesday, December 2 at 8pm ET/PT.
The award will be presented by country sensation Kellie Pickler, currently featured in CMT’s hit series, “I Love Kellie Pickler.” “Nashville” is produced by Lionsgate, ABC Studios and Opry Entertainment.
Cast members Connie Britton (Rayna), Clare Bowen (Scarlett), Chris Carmack (Will), Will Chase (Luke), Charles Esten (Deacon), Jonathan Jackson (Avery), Sam Palladio (Gunnar), Maisy Stella (Daphne), Lennon Stella (Maddie), and Audrey Peeples (Layla) are slated to accept the award on behalf of the entire cast.
“Through their captivating characters, the cast of Nashville have become international ambassadors for our music; helping to spark Nashville’s red-hot renaissance ” said Brian Philips, President of CMT. “With this award, we express our gratitude to a terrific group of stars for helping connect fans from around the world with our city.”
The sixth-annual 90-minute special will feature once-in-a-lifetime performances, unexpected tributes and unforgettable toasts as the biggest stars of music, film and television gather to celebrate the top five artists that earned the right to be called CMT’s artists of the year: Blake Shelton, Florida Georgia Line, Little Big Town, Luke Bryan and Sam Hunt. These artists collectively dominated the last 12 months ruling CMT’s platforms and country radio, scoring chart-topping album and singles, and selling out arenas around the country. Country legend Kenny Rogers will receive the prestigious “Artist of a Lifetime Award,” while Chris Stapleton will receive the first-ever “CMT Artists of the Year Breakout Award” and perform live. Additional performers, presenters, and special guests will be announced at a later date.
For more information visit CMT.com, and go join the conversation on the official CMT Facebook page or follow @CMT on Twitter using the official hashtag, #CMTAOTY.
