I am so sad! Lance Smith has proudly hosted CMT’s Top 20 Countdown for nearly a decade and helped host so many red carpet events for CMT.   In a press release sent out earlier today Lance has decided to end his relationship with the network in search of new creative endeavors.

Lance says;

 “I’ll continue to pursue a place in front of a mic or camera, but it will be under a different set of lights.” Smith continues, “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. 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!,” says Brian Philips, president, CMT. “He leaves Top 20 at the height of its biggest ratings streak ever, and his shoes will be hard to fill. 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.”

Lance is currently working on an independent film being shot around the Nashville area. While film and television acting roles are currently being pursued, Lance will continue to further his hosting career as well.

It’s gonna be hard to see anyone else hosting the Top 2o Countdown Lance and we will miss you!

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