COVID-19 Concerns Postpone ACM Awards, But Country Singers To Perform Special From Home

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — The spreading coronavirus has caused the postponement of the upcoming Academy of Country Music Awards. That's the bad news. The good news is CBS will air a new television special featuring country stars performing from their homes.

The academy announced Thursday that in place of their postponed awards show on April 5, "ACM Presents: Our Country" will feature conversations and at-home acoustic performances from country artists.

Many A-list touring artists who have had to cancel or postpone tours have participated in online concerts as the world continues to practice social distancing to slow the spread of the virus.

Performers have not yet been announced for the 7 p.m. CST special, which will also feature clips from previous ACM awards shows. The ACM Awards, which was scheduled to be held live in Las Vegas, was postponed until September at a date and venue to be announced.

For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover.

(© Copyright 2020 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)