LeAnn Rimes Commands the CMA Awards Red Carpet
Country music star LeAnn Rimes made a spectacular return to the spotlight, captivating onlookers on the red carpet at the 2025 CMA Awards in Nashville, Tennessee. The event, held on Wednesday night, saw the 43-year-old artist make a powerful style statement, arriving in a stunning, strapless light brown Aadnevik dress that featured a risky thigh-high slit and a low-cut, corseted bodice adorned with floral details.
A Full-Circle Moment for the Songstress
Rimes' appearance was particularly poignant, coming exactly 30 years after she made her debut at the prestigious annual ceremony as a 13-year-old. Speaking with Fox News ahead of the show, she reflected on the milestone. "I think this was my first awards show when I was 13 and I opened," Rimes shared. "In fact, I just saw Vince Gill. Vince Gill was hosting and he announced this little girl, 13, [the song] Blue with this big blue dress opening the show. And here I am 30 years later."
The singer also teased an upcoming project for fans, announcing, "We're actually revisiting Blue. 30 years of Blue is coming up next year and we've actually just announced a few special shows that we're going in and playing the Blue record. It's a very full circle moment."
Rimes, who also stars in the ABC series 9-1-1: Nashville, expressed her joy at filming the show in the city. "I'm loving having the show here in Nashville. I love that we can bring the film and TV world to Nashville," she said, adding, "Everybody's been super kind, super supportive, and I'm having a blast doing it."
Addressing Speculation and Celebrating Peers
The red carpet look, which showcased the singer's figure, comes after Rimes recently broke her silence on rumours that she had undergone a breast enhancement for her television role. During a candid Instagram Q&A, she set the record straight. "If you are referring to my boobs — I can't believe I am talking about my boobs — but if you are referring to my boobs in some of the videos that I have been posting when it comes to my character in 9-1-1: Nashville, I have the most massive push-up bra of life on," she explained. The entertainment industry veteran clarified that she has not had any surgical procedures for her role as Dixie Bennings.
Beyond Rimes' standout moment, the 2025 CMA Awards was a night of celebration for the genre's biggest names. The ceremony featured performances from acts including Patty Loveless, Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Old Dominion, and Brandi Carlile.
A special highlight of the evening was the tribute to Vince Gill, who was honoured with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern praised Gill in a press release, stating, "Vince embodies the very best of what Country Music stands for. He’s a true trailblazer, one who gives back to the community, honors the roots of our genre, and even now, continues to share his talent with fans across the globe."
The night also saw several early winners announced, setting the tone for the celebrations.
- Post Malone and Blake Shelton won for their collaboration "Pour Me a Drink."
- Ella Langley and Riley Green secured the CMA Music Video of the Year award for "you look like you love me."
A host of other stars participated as presenters or special guests, including Billy Ray Cyrus, Elizabeth Hurley, Jessica Capshaw, and Steve Martin, making the 2025 CMA Awards a truly memorable night for country music.
