Lance Smith & CMT Part Ways

CMT’s very first VJ, Lance Smith, has announced that he is leaving the network to persue a career in acting. Smith has hosted countless CMT shows over the years, but his home with with CMT’s Top 20 Countdown. Since 2001, he’s hosted more than 400 episodes of “Top 20.”

“I'll continue to pursue a place in front of a mic or camera, but it will be under a different set of lights.” Smith continues, “Once upon a time, before my decade long stint as a host, I was an actor and it's time to wear that hat once again. I will forever be grateful for every chance and opportunity given to me by CMT and Country Music. There's not a better fan base in the world. But most of all I will miss the crews-my friends behind the scenes. It's the show behind the curtain that I was most fortunate to see.”

Smith’s contract with CMT expires next month.

We wish him the best of luck!