Kristin M. Hall
FILE - This Nov. 2, 2016 file photo shows hosts Brad Paisley, left, and Carrie Underwood at the 50th annual CMA Awards in Nashville, Tenn. The Country Music Association is warning media outlets to avoid questions about a recent mass shooting in Las Vegas, gun rights or political affiliations at their annual awards show next week or risk losing credentials. The 51st annual CMA Awards will air live on Wednesday. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP, File)
Republished November 02, 2017 - 2:45 PM
Original Publication Date November 02, 2017 - 1:51 PM
NASHVILLE - The Country Music Association is warning media outlets to avoid questions about a recent mass shooting in Las Vegas, gun rights or political affiliations at their annual awards show next week or risk losing credentials.
In media guidelines for Wednesday's 51st annual CMA Awards held in Nashville, Tennessee, the association said the restrictions were "out of respect for the artists directly or indirectly involved" and they wanted everyone "to feel comfortable talking to press." Media who strayed from the guidelines could have their credentials "potentially revoked via security escort."
At a media preview Thursday in New York City with hosts Carrie Underwood and Braid Paisley, The Associated Press asked the performers about the Vegas shooting. The stars said they want to honour the victims' families during the show. Last year, the hosts made jokes about then-presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, although the political jokes were much gentler than other award shows.
Messages left for CMA reps weren't immediately returned Thursday.
Many country stars have spoken publicly about the shooting to offer condolences or to raise money for victims. CMT recently decided not to hand out awards during their recent CMT Artists of the Year show and dedicated the entire night to victims of the shooting.
Still many other country artists have been silent about gun laws in the wake of the shooting.
News from © The Associated Press, 2017