Country music icon Connie Smith—affectionately dubbed the “Sweetheart of the Grand Ole Opry”—was set to mark an extraordinary milestone: her 60th year as an Opry member, celebrated with a special show on August 20, 2025. Fans were brimming with anticipation, eager to honor her enduring legacy that began in 1965 with her chart-topping debut, “Once a Day”, which soared to No. 1 and paved the way for her enduring career.
Yet, the celebration had to be postponed at the last moment. Both Connie and her husband, fellow Opry legend Marty Stuart, fell ill with COVID‑19, prompting organizers to push the event to a future date. The Grand Ole Opry expressed understanding and promised that when the celebration does take place—it will truly be a night “to remember,” with Marty by Connie’s side.
Though the postponement marks a pause in festivities, fans remain unwavering in their excitement. With such an iconic union of talent and history, that long-awaited night will surely shine even brighter when it finally arrives.
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