Lance Smith Parts Ways With CMT

Lance Smith

LANCE SMITH is parting ways with CMT after hosting CMT's "Top 20 Countdown" for nearly a decade. He hosted over 400 episodes and only missed three episodes over the course of eight years. He joined CMT in 2001 as the network's first VJ.

SMITH has decided to end his relationship with the network and in search of new creative endeavors. He said: “I’ll continue to pursue a place in front of a mic or camera, but it will be under a different set of lights. 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.”

CMT President BRIAN PHILIPS said: "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! 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."

SMITH is currently working on an independent film being shot around the NASHVILLE area. 

SMITH is represented by manager KEN MADSON of FULL SCOPE ENTERTAINMENT, who can be reached at 615-329-4762 or at kenmadson@gmail.com.

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