The Grand Ole Opry is widely considered as the most respected stage in country music. When artists receive their initial invitation to perform at this prestigious venue, and later when they become official members, it is often regarded as one of the most significant milestones in their career.
However, not all country stars have a completely positive relationship with the Opry throughout their entire career. Throughout the years, several performers have been requested to leave the stage for various reasons, either for not following the venue's unwritten rules of behavior or for not meeting the official membership expectations.
At the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, there was a tribute show called Opry Goes Dolly, which was organized to celebrate Dolly Parton's 78th birthday in 2024. However, during the show, one of the performers named Elle King caused a lot of anger and frustration. She appeared on stage clearly intoxicated and openly admitted that she was heavily drunk. Elle King engaged in some confrontational conversations with the audience and even forgot the lyrics to Dolly Parton's song "Marry Me."
The place where the incident occurred expressed regret to the individuals who were upset by the choice of words used by King. However, numerous supporters of the Opry on social media believed that King should be the one to apologize and some even thought that her actions should result in her being prohibited from performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Throughout the years, the Opry has banned multiple artists, but is King's conduct truly deserving of such a drastic measure? If we examine a few instances from the venue's early years, specifically before 1973, it becomes evident that it is indeed a possibility.
In 1973, Johnny Cash was prohibited from performing at the Opry due to a highly intense show where he destroyed stage lights using a microphone stand. Alcohol played a significant role in causing this incident. Hank Williams, who is widely known as one of the Opry's most renowned banned artists, had his membership revoked because of his excessive drinking and lack of reliability. Additionally, Jerry Lee Lewis was removed from the Opry stage for various offenses, including using profanity 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 justify 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 misconduct!
6 Celebrities Restricted from Performing at the Grand Ole Opry (and the Reasons for Their Exclusion)
Photo Credit: Carena Liptak
There are twenty-six country stars who are not members of the Grand Ole Opry, and it may surprise you. The credit for the gallery goes to Billy
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