Brantley Gilbert, Trace Adkins, Lauren Alaina and More Join PBS’ A Capitol Fourth

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Written by Lauren Laffer
Brantley Gilbert, Trace Adkins, Lauren Alaina and More Join PBS’ A Capitol Fourth
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - OCTOBER 14: Country artist Brantley Gilbert performs during halftime of the game between the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on October 14, 2019 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

PBS will celebrate its 40th anniversary presentation of its annual A Capitol Fourth celebration. The event, held during the Fourth of July, will go on with performances from Brantley Gilbert, Trace Adkins, Lauren Alaina, Chrissy Metz and more.

“For four decades A Capitol Fourth has paid tribute to our nation’s birthday and the hopes and dreams of all Americans,” said Executive Producer Michael Colbert in a press release. “This year, our broadcast will reflect what we as a country have faced and the challenges ahead, while showcasing our message of inclusion, patriotism and love.”

Additional performers for the special include Patti LaBelle; Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Fogerty; world-renowned four-time Grammy Award-winning soprano superstar Renée Fleming; legendary Motown stars The Temptations celebrating their 60th anniversary; multi-platinum singer/songwriter Andy Grammer; five-time Grammy Award-winning Gospel vocalist extraordinaire Yolanda Adams; Tony Award-winning Broadway star Brian Stokes Mitchell; Tony Award-winning Broadway star Kelli O’Hara and Broadway and television star Mandy Gonzalez (Hamilton, In The Heights); with members of the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of top pops conductor Jack Everly. A Capitol Fourth will also be hosted by actor John Stamos.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, each of the performances will be pre-recorded with no audiences. The celebration will also not be held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Those working through the novel coronavirus pandemic will be honored with a special performance from Chrissy Metz, who will sing “I’m Standing With You” from the breakout film, Breakthrough.

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“These workers are committed to keeping us safe, keeping us fed, healing the sick and keeping the country going during this pandemic,” shared Stamos.  “It’s important for all of us to take a moment in our show to thank them and honor them for their spirit and courage.” 

The 40th broadcast of A Capitol Fourth airs on PBS Saturday, July 4, 2020 from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. ET.