The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most esteemed stage in country music. For artists, receiving an invitation to perform at this iconic venue, and eventually becoming an official member, is often seen as a significant milestone in their career.
However, it is not uncommon for country stars to have a less than perfect relationship with the Opry throughout their career. Throughout the years, several performers have been removed from the stage for various reasons, such as breaking the venue's unwritten rules of behavior or not meeting the official membership expectations.
At a special event called Opry Goes Dolly, held at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium to honor Dolly Parton on her 78th birthday in 2024, singer Elle King caused controversy. She appeared on stage visibly intoxicated, openly admitting to being drunk. She engaged in somewhat confrontational conversations with the audience and even forgot the lyrics to Parton's song "Marry Me."
The establishment expressed regret to those who were upset by King's choice of words. However, numerous fans of the Opry voiced their belief on social media that King should be the one to apologize, and some even went as far as suggesting that her actions were serious enough to justify being banned from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, the Opry has banned multiple artists, but is King's actions truly deserving of such a severe measure? If we examine past incidents that took place in the venue's early years, specifically in 1973 or before, it becomes apparent that it is indeed a possibility.
Following a highly energetic performance in 1973, Johnny Cash was prohibited from returning to the Opry. During this show, he used a microphone stand to smash the stage lights, and alcohol played a significant role in this incident. Hank Williams, a well-known artist, also faced a ban from the Opry due to his frequent intoxication and lack of dependability. Additionally, Jerry Lee Lewis was removed from the Opry stage for various reasons, including his use of explicit language during a live broadcast.
However, it is important to note that there is only one instance of a singer being completely and permanently banned from the Opry, and this decision was not made by the venue itself. Therefore, it is probable that even if King's actions warrant a temporary absence from the Opry stage, it is unlikely to have lasting consequences on her ability to perform at the Grand Ole Opry.
Continue reading to explore the celebrities who have been prohibited from performing on the Opry stage due to their inappropriate actions and conduct!
6 Celebrities Excluded from the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons for Their Ouster)
Image Credit: Carena Liptak
26 Country music artists who are not members of the Grand Ole Opry, and it may surprise you. Gallery credit goes to Billy Dukes.
Additional content available from Taste of Country. Find out more information by following us on