The 51st Annual Country Music Association Awards threaded a theme of unity throughout the ceremony. Tyler Perry was one attendee who shared a message of inclusion, which brought out differing reactions from viewers.
“Now it has never been more important than it is right now that we all come together, find some common ground, spend some time listening to each other, and realize that we are more alike than we are not alike,” Perry said at the Wedesday, Nov. 8 ceremony, which saw opening commentary from hosts Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley on President Donald Trump, but no mention of gun control.
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While his remarks garnered a standing ovation, some in the at-home crowd had a different response.
https://twitter.com/DeepStateAgent2/status/928446433841373188
CMA’s jumped the shark when they had Tyler Perry on stage lecturing Country music that “We all need to start listening to each other”, shut up. Go peddle your bullshit at the BET awards.
— Keith Blackwell (@KeithBl95077249) November 9, 2017
https://twitter.com/lockeannloebbed/status/928445978469896194
Still, others supported Perry’s message.
Tyler Perry preach! "Find some common ground, spend some time listening to each other and learning that we are more alike than we are not alike." #CMAawards
— Lᐰuren (@DraconisWing) November 9, 2017
https://twitter.com/hatecheaters91/status/928446150797135874
Madea always speakin the truth. #cmaawards @tylerperry pic.twitter.com/c4BxAbvM7C
— Tyler Lewis (@MusicCityTyler) November 9, 2017
Perry presented the Album of the Year award to Chris Stapleton.
