Rita Wilson to Host CMT’s Kenny Rogers Benefit for COVID-19 Musicians Relief Fund

Rita Wilson has been tapped to host CMT GIANTS Kenny Rogers: A Benefit for MusiCares. The tribute special will also serve as a fundraiser for the MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund. “It’s an honor to be hosting CMT GIANTS Kenny Rogers and to share in an evening of Kenny’s songs with so many iconic artists,” says Wilson, who recently recovered from coronavirus. “Kenny Rogers introduced so many to country music. His songs crossed over into many genres [and] his impact has been indelible.”

Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Rascal Flatts, Lady Antebellum, Jason Isbell, Amanda Shires, and Jennifer Nettles are just some of the A-list artists who will honor the late, great country icon on the special, which premieres April 8 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CMT. Performers will be filmed at their homes, while the special will also feature archival photos, interviews and performances from Rogers’ illustrious career.

During the broadcast, fans can donate directly to the MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund, created by The Recording Academy to help people in the music industry affected by the coronavirus outbreak and subsequent cancellation of music events. Half of all funds raised will go directly to artists in the Nashville country community.