The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most esteemed platform for country music. When artists receive their initial invitation to perform at this prestigious venue, and later, when they attain official membership, it becomes one of the most significant milestones in their career.
Nevertheless, not all country stars have a consistently positive relationship with the Opry throughout their entire careers. Throughout the years, several performers have been requested to exit the stage for various reasons, such as disregarding the venue's implicit code of conduct or not meeting the official membership expectations.
At a tribute show held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville called Opry Goes Dolly, which was organized to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024, there was a controversial incident involving performer Elle King. She caused an uproar when she appeared on stage visibly intoxicated, openly stating that she was heavily intoxicated. During her performance, she engaged in mildly confrontational exchanges with members of the audience and even forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me."
The location expressed regret to individuals who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous supporters of the Opry on social media believed that King should be the one to apologize and that her actions justified being prohibited from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, the Opry has imposed bans on multiple artists. However, is King's conduct truly deserving of such a drastic measure? By examining certain instances from the venue's early years, specifically those occurring in 1973 or earlier, it becomes evident that it is indeed a possibility.
Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry following a memorable event in 1973 where he destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Hank Williams, who is widely known as one of the Opry's most famous banned performers, had his membership revoked due to his excessive drinking and lack of reliability. Additionally, Jerry Lee Lewis was removed from the Opry stage for various reasons, including his use of profanity during a live broadcast.
However, it is important to note that there is only one singer who has been permanently and completely banned from the Opry, and this decision was not made by the venue itself. Therefore, it is probable that even if King's actions lead to her being temporarily removed from performing at the Opry, it is unlikely to have a lasting impact on her ability to play at the Grand Ole Opry.
Continue reading to explore the celebrities who have been barred from performing on the Opry stage and the actions they took that led to their expulsion.
6 Celebrities Who Were Forbidden from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons Behind Their Banishment)
Image Credit: Carena Liptak
Here are 26 country music stars who are not members of the Grand Ole Opry, and it might surprise you. The credit for this gallery goes to
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