CMT changes awards format

CMT is forgoing formal award presentations during this year’s artists of the year show and devoting the entire live show to “a night of hope and healing through the power of music.” The change comes after a mass shooting at a country music festival in Las Vegas. The cable network said Thursday the new format for the Oct. 18 show will focus on the fans, as well as those affected by recent devastating hurricanes and wildfires. The show will air live from Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center.