The Country Music Association has extended its partnership with executive producer Robert Deaton. Under the new deal, which includes the annual CMA Awards in addition to CMA Fest and CMA Country Christmas, Deaton will continue in the producer’s chair through 2026. Deaton has overseen CMA’s television properties since 2007.
Earlier this year, CMA renewed its contract with network television partner ABC, also through 2026.
“The passion Robert Deaton has for country music and the genre’s history is truly special,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA CEO. “His extraordinary vision continues to elevate the CMA Awards, CMA Fest and CMA Country Christmas, providing one-of-a-kind television moments to music fans throughout the year. I love to see the music come to life through his eyes and I am incredibly grateful for another five years with such a terrific partner.”
“Robert is an integral part of ABC’s relationship with CMA, and it’s impossible to imagine our annual specials without him,” says Rob Mills, Walt Disney Television executive vice president, unscripted and alternative entertainment. “We are excited for the continued opportunity to work alongside him and the entire CMA team to deliver the most entertaining country music events on television.”
“I could not be prouder and more honored to plant my flag long-term with my family at CMA,” Deaton adds. “This is home for me, these are my people. I’m blessed beyond measure.”
Deaton has also produced Sports Illustrated: 50 Years of Beautiful on NBC as well as the “Soul to Soul” Las Vegas residency for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. He was executive producer of The Passion With Tyler Perry for Fox Broadcasting and currently serves as executive producer of the Billboard Music Awards on NBC. Deaton made his feature film directorial debut in 2018 with Benched.
The Billboard Music Awards are produced by MRC Live & Alternative, which is owned by MRC. MRC and Penske Media are co-parent companies of Billboard.