Miranda Lambert, Other Artists, Offer Messages of Support To Morgan Wallen Over SNL Snag
Morgan Wallen posted an apology to Instagram last night after being informed that, due to his well-publicized partying last weekend, Saturday Night Live was canceling his performance. He was scheduled to perform at this week’s show. Wallen’s partying was captured on a number of TikTok accounts, and footage quickly circulated on social media.
It’s worth mentioning that, per an executive order from New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, “all travelers coming from states with significant rates of transmission of COVID-19 [have] to quarantine for a 14-day period from the time of their last contact.” Both Tennessee, where Wallen lives, and Alabama, where Wallen was seen partying last weekend, are on that list.
In his video message, Wallen said, “I respect the show’s decision because I know that I put them in jeopardy.” Indeed, Saturday Night Live‘s cast and crew have had to make a lot of changes to be able to return to the studio for this season (as opposed to doing shows where the cast members film segments from their own homes, as they did towards the end of last season). In a recent interview with the New York Times, Saturday Night Live creator/producer Lorne Michaels said that “We’ve had to rethink every part of the show” to make it safe for the cast and crew.
In his video, the 27-year-old Wallen said his actions were “short-sighted” and had affected his long-term goals and dreams.
“On a more personal note, I think I have some growing up to do,” he said. “I think I’ve lost myself a little bit. I’ve tried to find joy in the wrong places and, I don’t know, it’s left me with less joy. So I’m going to try to work on that. I’m going to step back from the spotlight for a little while and go work on myself.”
Wallen also noted that Lorne Michaels told him he could make up the appearance on Saturday Night Live at a future date.
A number of country artists responded to Wallen’s post. Miranda Lambert said, “You’re a sweetheart. We got you.”
Jake Owen wrote in support, “Don’t beat yourself up pal, God is still working on ya.”
Morgan’s musical buddy Hardy wrote, “Love you bud I’m proud of ya.”
Little Big Town’s Kimberly Schlapman responded first by writing, “You are precious!!! Your humility is astounding. We love you!!”
Wallen’s sister Mikeala wrote, “You are an incredible brother and just overall a great person. I am proud of you and your heart and love you dearly!”
