CMA Awards on Channel 2: Luke Bryan hosting, Freddie Freeman among presenters

The biggest stars in country music will appear at the 2021 CMA Awards Wednesday night.

Luke Bryan is hosting the highly-anticipated award show, which kicks off at 8 p.m. ET live on Channel 2. This is the Georgia born singer’s first time hosting the show.

Don’t miss any of the performances, special guests and the night’s biggest moments, airing LIVE TONIGHT on Channel 2!

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Ahead of the show, Bryan shared his thoughts on taking the stage to honor fellow artists in the industry.

“Being in front of the TV a lot with ‘American Idol’ has gotten me more comfortable with the role of doing these things,” Bryan said about hosting the three-hour show. “I’m excited to be in the role and be confident in the role.”

Eric Church and Chris Stapleton go into the night tied for the most nominations, with five each in major categories, including entertainer of the year, single of the year, album of the year, male vocalist of the year and song of the year.

Some of the artists who will be performing include Carly Pearce, Luke Combs, Blake Shelton, Brothers Osborne, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert and Eric Church.

The list of presenters is long, but a few familiar faces from Georgia is among them. That includes Coweta County native Alan Jackson and Atlanta Braves World Series champion Freddie Freeman.

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The show will take place in front of a live audience for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

Performers, presenters, nominees and all other members in the production are required to undergo testing and will be seated in an area separated from the audience by a barrier.

In order to attend, audience members have to provide proof of full vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to the show. According to guidelines, face coverings are also required for audience members at the show.

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Freddie Freeman talks with Channel 2's Zach Klein as he arrives back in Atlanta Freddie Freeman talks with Channel 2's Zach Klein as he arrives back in Atlanta

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