The CMA and Disney are staying together — and going bigger. Their renewed deal extends through 2032 and brings country music to Disney+ for the first time.
What We Know: The two companies added six years to an already 20-year partnership. The expanded deal covers the CMA Awards, CMA Fest, and CMA Country Christmas. Most notably, this year’s CMA Awards will stream live on Disney+ alongside the traditional ABC broadcast. The agreement also unlocks new opportunities across streaming and digital platforms.
What They Said: CMA CEO Sarah Trahern called it a milestone moment. “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.”
Disney Entertainment Television Chairman Debra OConnell added, “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.”
What Remains Unclear: Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. It’s also unclear how Disney+ viewership will be measured against the ABC broadcast. Additionally, no details have emerged yet about changes to CMA Fest programming under the new agreement.
What It Means: This deal signals a serious push to grow country music’s digital footprint. Streaming live on Disney+ broadens the genre’s reach well beyond traditional television audiences. Furthermore, the timing matters — Trahern retires at year’s end, and she’s clearly closing out her tenure on strong footing. Country music’s biggest night just got a much larger stage.
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Bethany Kent is a Music Radio Editor for Barrett Media. She spent nearly 20 years bringing radio to life on stages, across the airwaves, and through unforgettable listener experiences. Her career spans local markets including Providence, Philadelphia, and New York City, most recently serving as National Director of Music Initiatives for Audacy. From producing major live events like HOT 97’s Summer Jam to leading strategic national marketing initiatives, she has built a career at the intersection of music, media, and culture. She can be reached at bethany@barrettmedia.com.
