Country Music Hall of Famer Bill Anderson recently invited Sara Evans to become the latest member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Anderson made the surprise invitation onstage while Evans was performing at her sold out concert at the Ryman Auditorium last Thursday night, marking the 20-year celebration of the release of her 2003 album, Restless.
Following their duet "Suds In The Bucket," Carly Pearce introduced Lady A to present a Platinum plaque for the song's platinum-selling status. It was followed by Anderson's invitation.
Anderson, who is the Opry's longest-serving member, recalled how he had gone to see Evans perform in a small warehouse showcase before her first album was released because she had included his song "Walk Out Backwards" in her debut project.
"It's a long way from that warehouse to selling out the Ryman," Anderson said.
Evans will be inducted into the Opry on October 7 as part of the Opry's 98th Birthday Weekend.
(Photo: Kristin Barlowe)
For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
Entertainment News
June 12, 2026 17:14 ET Major central bank action was the focus this week in economic news. The European Central Bank became the first major central bank to move in response to the rising inflationary pressures in the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. In North America, the U.S. inflation and trade data as well as Canada’s central bank decision gained attention. The Chinese trade data was the main news in Asia.