Disney Extends Country Music Association Deal Through 2032
Disney has announced that it has signed a new six-year deal with the Country Music Association (CMA) to keep the CMA Awards, as well as CMA broadcast specials “CMA Fest” and “CMA Country Christmas” through 2032.
This six-year extension builds on a landmark 20-year collaboration with ABC and includes expanded opportunities across streaming and digital platforms, further strengthening the reach of CMA’s television properties.
As part of the new agreement, the CMA Awards will stream live on Disney+ for the first time ever, alongside its traditional broadcast on ABC, kicking off with “The 60th Annual CMA Awards” on Wednesday, 18th November, 2026.
Established in 1967, the CMA Awards are the longest-running annual music awards program on broadcast television, having debuted on ABC in 2006. Over the course of the partnership, CMA and ABC have continued to evolve the franchise across broadcast, streaming and digital platforms, connecting fans around the world to Country Music’s biggest moments.
Debra OConnell, chairman of Disney Entertainment Television, said in a statement regarding the deal:
“We’re grateful to Sarah Trahern and our incredible partners at the Country Music Association and are excited to continue hosting the most iconic night in country music for years to come. Disney has long been the home for the very best in live entertainment and now, with the addition of Disney+, we are expanding the show’s reach like never before.”
Sarah Trahern, CMA chief executive officer, added:
“For two decades, Disney has been CMA’s partner in celebrating excellence in Country Music and bringing its artists and storytelling to audiences around the world. Extending our collaboration with Disney and expanding the show to livestream on Disney+ marks an exciting next step for CMA, allowing us to reach new audiences while continuing our role in elevating and shaping the genre. As I prepare to retire at the end of the year, ensuring CMA is strongly positioned for the future has remained one of my highest priorities, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together. As we approach ‘The 60th Annual CMA Awards’ this fall and a new chapter for CMA Fest in the new stadium in 2027, I’m excited for what’s ahead for both CMA and Country Music.”
Roger’s Take: It’s great to see Disney and the CMA have extended this deal. Disney is trying to keep many of the biggest shows on its platforms, so streaming on Disney+, while also airing live on ABC, extends the reach of the show. It also looks like this could be a global deal, since Country music continues to gain popularity worldwide.
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