The country music star made waves at “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” when she arrived with an unexpected plus-one—her husband, igniting reactions among netizens.

Carrie Underwood, a frequent presence at high-profile events, attended the Grand Ole Opry’s centennial celebration on March 19, 2025, with her husband, Mike Fisher, by her side. The couple, married for nearly 15 years, rarely make red-carpet appearances together, making this outing a special occasion for fans.

The sight of Fisher, a former professional hockey player, standing beside the singer quickly became a talking point among attendees and online followers alike.

While Underwood dazzled in an elegant ensemble, Fisher’s presence drew just as much attention. Fans were thrilled to see the pair together, with one writing, “Hot husband of the night.”

Another commented, “Her husband is so handsome, don’t see him much.” One netizen added, “I haven’t seen Mike in a while, stunning Carrie [sic].” Some expressed their excitement over Fisher’s rare public appearance, with one noting, “Surprise, he was with her for this one.”

Others admired the couple’s relationship, including one who shared, “Love this Christian couple🙏❤️.” On a video of them, one fan wrote, “Stunning,” while another simply called them a “beautiful couple.”

With Fisher’s surprise appearance, Carrie Underwood‘s night at “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” became memorable. However, there was another moment that stunned even more during the event: her tribute to Randy Travis.

Taking the stage, Underwood honored Travis with stunning renditions of his iconic songs, “Three Wooden Crosses” and “Forever and Ever, Amen.”

The most touching moment came at the end of “Forever and Ever, Amen” when Underwood approached Travis in the audience. With a warm smile, she handed him the microphone, inviting him to sing the final “Amen.”

His voice, despite past health challenges, resonated through the venue, evoking applause. “Randy Travis everybody,” Underwood proudly declared as she embraced the country music legend. The emotional exchange prompted a standing ovation from the audience, celebrating both artists and their shared history.

Following the performance, fans flooded social media with heartfelt reactions. One admirer praised her touching performance, “Carrie Underwood did a wonderful job here with Randy Travis Randy Travis has battled some health issues and for him to say AMEN like that, that’s incredible Carrie let Randy have the moment and shine I’ll always love Forever And Ever Amen [sic].”

Another fan was overwhelmed by the emotional tribute, saying, “Such a touching tribute to Randy Travis by Carrie Underwood… not a dry eye in the house when Randy sang, ‘Amen!'” The sentiment was echoed by someone else, “Not a dry eye in the venue or any home while watching that performance. She is such a classy woman, and Randy was just beaming! ❤️.”

The raw emotion of the moment touched countless hearts, with one viewer recalling, “She sang his songs so great and went over and gave him a hug. Tears in everyone!s [sic] eyes. So sweet.” More people praised Underwood, “Your tribute to Randy Travis was so beautiful! The smile on his face and then ‘Amen’ I’m still tearing up. Thank you!! Awesome! Well done! 💕.”

The special event, “Opry 100: A Live Celebration,” carried added significance for Underwood, as Randy Travis had welcomed her into the Grand Ole Opry family 17 years ago.

The moment became even more touching when Underwood closed her tribute with “Forever and Ever, Amen.” According to Travis’ wife, Mary Davis, the song holds a special place in their hearts.

“The song ‘Forever and Ever, Amen’ is all about love. It’s a universal song. It’s a beautiful song. It’s like the national anthem of country music,” she said.

Travis has paved the path to success for talented artists such as Underwood. He is widely credited as a key figure in shaping modern country music.

Other important names in country music were present at the Opry centennial celebration, like Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood. As reported previously, the two country music icons took the stage to sing McEntire’s 1991 hit, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia.” Their performance left fans in awe.

McEntire embraced the celebratory spirit with an elegant look. She styled her red hair in a high ponytail with soft bangs and accessorized with sparkling earrings. Her bejeweled jacket and matching boots added a touch of glamour.

Yearwood opted for a more understated yet classic style, wearing a flowing maxi dress with her blonde locks in loose waves. As they sang together, the energy in the venue was electric. The performance showcased their vocal chemistry and stage presence, reinforcing their status as two of country music’s most celebrated artists.

Fans took to social media to express their admiration. One fan wrote, “You floored me! Absolutely beautiful and great tributes to two wonderful and the duet of Georgia with Trisha. ❤️❤️❤️absolutely perfection [sic]!” Another commented, “Great seeing the superstar duet! I love it.”

Others praised their performance, with comments like, “Loved their part of the show” and “2 of the most glamorous country music stars ever.” Some even suggested the two collaborate again, saying, “They totally need to sing a duet together.” The event itself also received high praise, with one fan calling it “the greatest show in a very long time.”

McEntire and Yearwood’s duet wasn’t the only moment that had fans talking. Ahead of the event, McEnitre took to X to encourage fans to tune in and watch the celebration. While her duet with Yearwood was a highlight, her solo performance became one of the most poignant moments of the night.

The “Fancy” singer honored country greats Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn with a moving tribute, performing a cappella rendition of “Sweet Dreams (Of You).” The stripped-down performance showcased her powerful vocals and deep connection to country music’s rich history.

As she sang, the venue fell silent, letting the emotion of the moment take center stage. McEntire’s tribute served as a reminder of Cline and Lynn’s lasting influence on the genre. The “Opry 100: A Live Celebration” event was a night of honoring country music’s greatest voices.

For a century, the Opry has been a defining platform for country music, and the night paid tribute to its rich heritage. McEntire and Yearwood’s duet was just one of many unforgettable moments that reinforced the genre’s enduring appeal.

The event brought together some of the biggest names in country music. Carly Pearce paid tribute to Dolly Parton, while Lainey Wilson and Marty Stuart joined forces for a Hank Williams classic, adding to the night’s nostalgic feel. The lineup featured even more country stars, including Ashley McBryde, Jelly Roll, Dierks Bentley, and more.

However, fans had a lot to say about Kelsea Ballerini’s tribute to Barbara Mandrell. The singer performed Mandrell’s 1981 hit, “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool,” with Mandrell seated nearby, swaying along to the tribute.

During the performance, Ballerini adjusted the lyrics to emphasize the significance of the Grand Ole Opry, singing, “And I was listenin’ to the Opry when all of my friends were diggin’ Rock ‘n Roll and Rhythm and Blues, I was country when country wasn’t cool.”

At the song’s conclusion, she embraced Mandrell and altered the closing line to, “She was country when country wasn’t cool.”

Ballerini’s tribute sparked mixed reactions online, with some praising her performance while others criticized her rendition.

On Facebook, one person commented, “Not a Kelsea fan [sic].” Another agreed, writing, “I think she ruined the song. It just sounded like every other Kelsea song and nothing like Barbara’s song.” Another reaction stated, “I think she sounded awful. She’s no Barbara.”

Over on Instagram, responses varied. One fan praised the performance, saying, “she sounds amazing omg [sic].” However, another wrote, “She sang this sort of okay and Barbara definitely deserves a tribute…but I’m not convinced that Kelsea was country when country wasn’t cool…or that she ever was [sic].”

On TikTok, reactions were similarly split. One viewer wrote, “Pretty good version of this song [sic]!” Another commented, “She did a great version but still not Barbara I’m sorry [sic].” A third response noted, “Not as good as Barbara! But it’s not bad.”

Ballerini’s tribute to Mandrell marked a significant moment in the Grand Ole Opry’s history. While the performance divided opinions, it undeniably paid homage to one of country music’s most celebrated artists.

Speaking of major musicians of the night, Garth Brooks joined his wife, Yearwood, for another tribute, this time, to fellow legends George Jones and Tammy Wynette. Netizens, of course, shared their opinions, particular focusing on Brooks.

Under the golden glow of the Grand Ole Opry stage, Yearwood stood poised and elegant beside her husband, her presence commanding yet effortlessly graceful. Dressed in a floor-length black gown that flowed with every movement, she radiated classic country glamour.

Draped over her shoulders was a rich, patterned shawl that added a regal touch, its intricate designs catching the stage lights as she sang.

Her blonde locks cascaded in soft waves, framing a face filled with warmth and expression, every note she delivered reflecting the passion she poured into the performance.

Dressed in classic Brooks fashion — denim jeans, a cowboy hat, and a dark button-up shirt — the country icon stood beside his wife, guitar in hand, embodying the spirit of traditional country music.

Together, Brooks and Trisha Yearwood took on “Golden Ring,” a song deeply embedded in country music history as a timeless duet by Jones and Wynette. Their voices intertwined seamlessly — Yearwood’s slightly higher pitch soaring over Brooks’ deep, steady alto tones, creating a harmony that felt both powerful and intimate.

The chemistry between them was undeniable, their shared love for the music and each other evident in every glance and lyric exchanged.

Behind them, images of Jones and Wynette flickered across the massive screen, adding emotional weight to an already stirring tribute. The couple sang with exuberance and confidence, embodying the spirit of the legendary duo they honored.

As the final chords rang out, Brooks removed his hat in a gesture of deep respect, and the audience erupted into applause.

Cheers filled the venue as attendees rose to their feet, giving the couple a well-earned standing ovation. It was a moment of pure country magic, cementing the night as one of the Grand Ole Opry’’ most unforgettable milestones.

At a different point during the affair, Brooks took the stage solo for a deeply personal tribute to Jones, delivering a performance that was as raw as it was powerful.

As he strummed his acoustic guitar, his voice carried the weight of the song’s meaning, thick with emotion. His deep, resonant vocals filled the venue, each note dripping with heartfelt sincerity. The audience sat captivated, some visibly moved, their expressions reflecting the sheer intensity of the moment.

At times, Brooks closed his eyes, letting the music guide him as he leaned into the depth of the lyrics. Passion radiated from him with every chord, his voice swelling with might as he honored Jones’ enduring legacy.

The intimate, soul-stirring moment was captured by a fan on TikTok, who recorded a snippet of the performance on their TV.

Following their tribute performances, Brooks and Yearwood found themselves at the center of online discourse, with netizens quick to share their thoughts on both the duet and Brooks’ solo. While some heaped praise on the couple’s rendition of “Golden Ring,” others were less than impressed — particularly where Brooks was concerned.

Several critics expressed disappointment in Brooks’ vocal delivery, with one person lamenting, “I love Garth but he’s loosing [sic] his voice.”

Another went further, bluntly stating, “Ruined a classic.” Harsh words continued to pour in, with a fellow spectator declaring, “Barf butchered the best country song ever.”

Others took issue with Brooks’ stylistic choices, with one individual remarking, “Wish Garth would have just sang [sic] the song instead of trying to impersonate George.” Another pointed out what they perceived as an unpolished execution, noting, “He had to read the words to the song.. very obviously I might add. Trisha was great!”

Some viewers were more concerned about Brooks’ appearance and demeanor, questioning whether something was amiss. “Garth looks in very poor health. Needs to seek medical care,” one commenter observed. Another questioned his overall stage presence while complimenting Yearwood.

However, not all feedback was negative. Many fans lauded Yearwood for her vocal prowess, with one gushing, “Trisha, you singing with Garth was absolutely amazing. Best [sic] part of the show tonight!!”

Another echoed the sentiment, exclaiming, “This show is amazing! Duet with Garth so [sic] wonderful.” Whether in praise or criticism, the performance certainly left an impact.

And when it comes to making an impact, Gwen Stefani is an expert. She drew attention last night by stepping onto the red carpet in a bold ensemble. However, netizens had mixed reactions to her appearance.

Stefani, 55, attended the event alongside her husband, country star Blake Shelton, 48. She stood out in a sheer black mini-dress with ruffled layers and delicate lace details.

The “Hollaback Girl” hitmaker completed the look with fishnet stockings, knee-high black leather boots, sleek straight blonde hair, and bold red lipstick.

Next to her, Shelton — an Opry Member and longtime coach on The Voice who served as the official host of the evening — kept it classic in a navy blazer, matching vest, blue jeans, light blue shirt, and brown shoes.

Stefani’s ensemble quickly sparked reactions online, drawing both criticism and praise. “I don’t think fish net stockings are appropriate for the Opry [sic],” a netizen wrote. “Time for Gwen to stop dressing like a teenager,” a second suggested.

Someone else felt that her outfit choice could have been improved, suggesting she could have dressed better. Another critic added, “Gwen needs some clothes on. I hope she’s not the center tonite if so I want be watching [sic].”

However, others supported her bold style. One admirer simply gushed, “Gwen looks gorgeous!!” Another expressed excitement and enthusiasm for both Stefani and the “Austin” crooner, using fire emojis to convey their approval.

A separate commenter complimented the couple, describing their appearance as “wonderful.” Another referred to Stefani and Shelton as their “favorite couple,” praising how they both “look so amazing.” Another showed admiration for the pair, “Our faves Blake and Gwen😍😍 [sic].”

While it’s unclear whether Stefani had a prominent role in the event itself, she appeared content supporting her husband during his hosting duties. The “Don’t Speak” singer shared a video on her Instagram Story, showing her husband’s name displayed on the television screen.

The clip — which also featured names of country stars like Reba McEntire and Trace Adkins — included a reflection of a lighted mirror and a mobile phone, suggesting Stefani was inside a makeup room at the time.

To sum up, Opry’s 100th bash proved to be a global phenomenon, dominating online conversations. Fans everywhere passionately weighed in, offering a wide spectrum of reactions – from heartfelt praise to pointed critique – about every aspect of the celebration.