Grand Ole Opry Celebrates 100 Years with Star-Studded Live Telecast

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Grand Ole Opry, an iconic landmark in country music history, will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a special live telecast titled “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” on March 19, 2025. The event will showcase performances by numerous country music legends and superstars, promising to deliver a remarkable three-hour experience filled with tributes and special guest appearances.

Blake Shelton, a prominent figure in country music and a longstanding member of the Opry, expressed his excitement about the upcoming celebration. “Becoming a member of the Opry is a highlight of my life and career, and 15 years later I still get that same feeling of reverence and excitement every time I walk out on that stage,” Shelton said in the event announcement.

The Grand Ole Opry began its journey in 1925, originally broadcasting from a simple radio barn in Nashville. Over the years, it has grown into a prestigious venue, known for its rich musical heritage and as a launching pad for countless artists. The Opry’s current location, the Grand Ole Opry House, was opened in 1974. It features an eight-foot square of the original Opry stage from the Ryman Auditorium, embedded into its center, symbolizing the connection between the two historic locations.

The Opry House underwent significant renovations after being affected by the 2010 Nashville flood, which submerged much of the venue. According to Steve Buchanan, then-president of the Grand Ole Opry, the original circle remains in good condition despite the disaster. “(The circle) is in remarkably good condition. We’ve taken it up for some TLC and it will be back in place for the 100th anniversary,” Buchanan noted.

As part of the 100th-anniversary festivities, the telecast will include a “Halo” lighting effect designed to enhance the experience of the legendary circle, improving the ambiance for both performers and viewers alike. The event serves not only as a celebration of the past but also as an opportunity to honor the legacy of country music and its influential figures.

The live celebration will air on participating networks, allowing fans from all over the country to join in the festivities. The event aims to bring together past members of the Opry and those who have made a significant impact on the genre, showcasing performances that span the decades of country music evolution.

The Grand Ole Opry has stood the test of time, adapting to the needs of its audience while preserving its roots in tradition and culture. As it approaches this monumental milestone, the anticipation builds among fans and artists alike for a night that promises to be unforgettable.