After more than eight years on CMT, host Lance Smith is leaving the network to focus on his acting career. Smith joined CMT in 2001 as the network’s first VJ and went on to host over 400 episodes of the CMT Top 20 Countdown. He has logged countless hours on camera and hosted dozens of different shows and specials.
“He leaves Top 20 at the height of its biggest ratings streak ever,” says CMT Pres. Brian Philips, “and his shoes will be hard to fill.”
“I’ll continue to pursue a place in front of a mic or camera, but it will be under a different set of lights,” explains Smith. “Once upon a time, before my decade long stint as a host, I was an actor and it’s time to wear that hat once again.?”
He is currently working on an independent film being shot in the Nashville area, and will continue his hosting career while he pursues acting.
Smith and Big Kenny on a recent episode of "CMT Top 20 Countdown." Photo: Ben Wilder
Smith continues, “I will forever be grateful for every chance and opportunity given to me by CMT and Country Music. There’s not a better fan base in the world. But most of all I will miss the crews—my friends behind the scenes. It’s the show behind the curtain that I was most fortunate to see.”
“Growing up before our viewers’ eyes, Lance has developed remarkable versatility — sly humor, perfect timing, strong relationships with our stars, and the ability to gracefully handle everything we’ve thrown at him,” adds Philips. “We applaud his ambition, and look forward to the next great phase of Lance’s career. His extended family at CMT and MTV Networks thank him for his terrific run.”
Smith is represented by longtime manager Ken Madson of Full Scope Entertainment who can be reached by calling 615-329-4762 or via email at kenmadson@gmail.com.
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