Carrie Underwood returns to Surprise CMA Awards for duet with Cody Johnson

Carrie Underwood made a surprise return for 2024 Country Music Association Awards.

The moment came Cody Johnsonup for five awards at this year’s ceremony, took the stage to perform at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Wednesday, November 20. While Johnson, 37, was introduced solo by hosts Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson and Peyton Manninghad country singer Underwood, 41, join him to perform their duet “I’m Gonna Love You.”

Johnson started the song alone before Underwood walked offstage and sang the second verse. Her performance was met with applause and cheers from the audience.

Underwood, 41, stepped out in a dress with an orange bodice, white flowing sleeves and a matching skirt. She paired the look with a statement turquoise necklace and full glam makeup. Her long blonde locks had her signature waves.

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After completing the verse, Underwood joined Johnson for the chorus of the heartbreaking ballad. In between lyrics, Johnson gave Underwood a shout out to join in.

“Yeah, it’s Carrie Underwood,” he exclaimed, to a big cheer from the crowd.

When the song ended, Underwood and Johnson bowed and shared a sweet hug as the crowd rose to give the performers a standing ovation. The camera then panned to several other stars, including Thomas Rhett and Teddy swims who were shocked by the impromptu duet.

Underwood’s CMA Awards performance was a surprise to viewers as she was not on this year’s list of performers. Neither did the singer walk the red carpet prior to the award ceremony. While she was up for Entertainer of the Year in 2023, Underwood has not attended the CMAs since 2022. At her last show, she performed a tribute to the late Loretta Lynn with Miranda Lambert and Reba McEntire.

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While Underwood hasn’t been to the CMAs recently, she’s been busy with various projects. In addition to her duet with Johnson, which dropped in September, Underwood recently returned to her American Idol roots to substitute judge Katy Perry. (The panel also includes Bryan, 48, and Lionel Richie.)

“I think I can be honest and constructive, but still kind,” Underwood told the radio personality Buzz Brainard in August, what can be expected from her behind the judging table. “And I think that’s the whole point, because people come in and it’s (their) dream. You’re part of someone’s story from that moment.”

Auditions for season 23 took place in August, and the season premieres Sunday, March 9 on ABC.