Ashley McBryde is set to become the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry.
The award-winning singer-songwriter appeared on CBS Mornings on Thursday (October 6), where she was surprised to see Garth Brooks video call her from the Opry stage during the live interview. Brooks, who marks his 32nd anniversary of becoming an Opry member, told McBryde that he’s “here for a proposal.”
“Miss Ashley, I am (already married), but this is part of a family that keeps growing,” Brooks said. “You know where we’re at? We’re at the Grand Ole Opry. I’m standing in the circle of wood right now where you stand. Miss Ashley McBryde, on behalf of the Opry, and myself as an Opry member — I’m gonna try not to cry — we would love for you to consider becoming the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry.”
McBryde tearfully replied, “It would be a great joy and a great honor of my life. Thank you.” She added later that she’s “always said I will earn it, and this is a pretty surreal moment.” McBryde said that winning GRAMMY Awards and becoming an Opry member were two of the greatest career highlights as an entertainer, which she always looked forward to earning.
Surprises didn’t end there… CBS Mornings anchors Gayle King, Nate Burleson and Tony Dokoupil revealed that McBryde’s mom was waiting for her in the green room and surprised her on air after Brooks invited her daughter to become an Opry member. McBryde emotionally embraced her mom on the CBS Mornings set.
“Beginning with her triumphant first night on our stage, Ashley has already been a part of some incredible Opry moments in her young career,” Dan Rogers, Opry Executive Producer, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled that her seemingly limitless talent will be on display and that she’ll be a part of this very special show for years to come.”
McBryde’s induction date will be announced at a later time, according to a press release on Thursday.
Before CBS Mornings hosts revealed the big surprise, they spoke with McBryde about her recovery from a horse accident, and about her new album Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville, which debuted on September 30. Watch the full interview here: