The Grand Ole Opry hosted the biggest country music celebration in its history on Wednesday, March 19, at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. The Opry 100 birthday event aired live in March and re-aired on Monday night, September 15, drawing millions of viewers eager to witness this once-in-a-lifetime gathering of country legends.

Out of the 75 living Grand Ole Opry members, about 50 artists attended the historic milestone. This extraordinary celebration marked the only time so many Opry stars were in one place to honor the legacy of the institution that shaped the heart of country music.

A Celebration of Country Music History

From 64-year Opry member Whisperin’ Bill Anderson to the newest member Steven Curtis Chapman, the Opry family united to pay tribute to the icons who paved the way and to the new voices shaping country music today.

Unlike typical awards shows, this event had no competition, politics, or suspense — only pure love and respect for the rich history of country music.

With more than four dozen Opry members on hand and only three hours to perform, not every star had solo time onstage. However, fans spotted many of them singing in the Opry choir during an emotional In Memoriam tribute featuring Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, and Sonya Isaacs performing “Go Rest High On That Mountain.”

The finale brought everyone together for a powerful performance of “I Will Always Love You” in honor of Dolly Parton, followed by a heart-stirring rendition of “Will The Circle Be Unbroken.”

Notable Absences From the Opry 100 Celebration

While dozens of artists attended, several notable Opry members were missing from the celebration.

Dolly Parton did not appear in person but contributed a heartfelt pre-recorded video message. She is still mourning the recent death of her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, which likely kept her from attending. Just one week earlier, Dolly appeared at her Dollywood theme park to launch its 40th anniversary, showing she is gradually returning to public life.

Patty Loveless also missed the event due to her husband Emory Gordy Jr.’s health issues. Ricky Skaggs explained on the red carpet that Patty stayed home “where she should be” and that Sonya Isaacs stepped in to sing Patty’s harmony parts during the Vince Gill tribute.

Other Opry members who didn’t attend included Rascal Flatts (currently on their Life Is A Highway Tour), Darius Rucker (temporarily living in London), Chris Janson, Emmylou Harris, Jon Pardi, Ricky Van Shelton, Chris Young, Steve Wariner, Josh Turner, Lorrie Morgan, Sara Evans, Craig Morgan, Pam Tillis, and Martina McBride.

None of these artists have commented on their absence.