Disney and Country Music Association Renew Broadcast and Streaming Partnership Until 2032
Disney and the Country Music Association (CMA) announced on Tuesday that they have extended their partnership through 2032. This agreement encompasses future CMA Awards, CMA Fest, and CMA Country Christmas broadcasts. The original contract with ABC, which airs these events, was set to expire this year.
The new six-year extension builds upon a 20-year collaboration between the CMA and ABC, furthering their reach across streaming and digital platforms. Notably, the CMA Awards will stream live on Disney+ for the first time, beginning with the 60th Annual CMA Awards on Nov. 18, 2026, in addition to the traditional broadcast on ABC.
Debra OConnell, chairman of Disney Entertainment Television, expressed enthusiasm for the ongoing partnership. “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,” she stated. “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.”
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CMA chief executive officer Sarah Trahern also highlighted the significance of the partnership. “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,” she said.
“Extending our collaboration with Disney and expanding the show to livestream on Disney+ marks an exciting next step for CMA. 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,” Trahern added.
The CMA Awards are a key component of ABC’s expanding lineup of live events, which includes The Oscars, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest, and starting in 2027, The Grammys and Super Bowl LXI. The CMA Awards consistently rank among the Top 10 primetime specials on broadcast television.
Established in 1967, the CMA Awards hold the distinction of being the longest-running annual music awards program on broadcast television, premiering on ABC in 2006. Throughout their partnership, CMA and ABC have continually evolved the franchise across various platforms, connecting fans to the biggest moments in Country Music.
