Full Breakdown
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani Skip the 2025 CMA Awards
11/19/2025, 9:54:52 PM
Overview of the Event
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani will not attend the 2025 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, scheduled for November 19 at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. Despite Shelton's nomination for the Musical Event of the Year for his collaboration with Post Malone on "Pour Me a Drink," the couple has opted to watch the ceremony from home. A source confirmed to E! News, “Blake and Gwen will be watching the CMAs on their TV this year.”
Busy Schedules and Recent Releases
The couple's decision to skip the event comes amid busy schedules and recent music releases. Gwen Stefani has launched new Christmas songs titled “Hot Cocoa” and “Shake the Snow Globe,” while Blake Shelton released his 13th album earlier this year and continues to manage his Ole Red restaurant chain. Their absence from the CMA Awards follows a controversial appearance at the 2025 American Music Awards, where both performed pre-recorded segments that drew criticism from fans who expected live performances.
Criticism & Opposition
The backlash from their previous awards show appearance may have influenced their decision to avoid the CMA Awards. Fans expressed disappointment on social media, questioning the authenticity of their performances. One TikTok user remarked, “Why would they say performing live when they aren’t even here??” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among fans regarding the couple's engagement with live events.
Official Statements & Responses
While no official reason has been provided for their absence from the CMA Awards, the couple's choice to maintain a low public profile in recent months has been noted. The CMA Awards will feature performances from various artists, including Keith Urban, Little Big Town, Kelsea Ballerini, Brandi Carlile, and Luke Combs, highlighting the event's star-studded nature despite Shelton and Stefani's absence.
What's Next
Looking ahead, both Shelton and Stefani are set to headline the Endymion Extravaganza in New Orleans in February 2026, indicating their continued presence in the music scene despite their absence from the CMA Awards.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Blake and Gwen will be watching the CMAs on their TV this year.” — Source, E! News
