Blake Shelton says he's thrilled to be the co-host for this year's Academy of Country Music Awards. He'll be joining Reba McEntire to lead the upcoming ceremony. Blake says he's "humbled" to get the nod from Reba, calling her, "not only a mentor to me but a true friend." He explains, quote, "She continually supports other artists, which is a testament really to her beauty and talent." Shelton also promises that they'll put on quite a show, adding, quote, "You will definitely have to tune-in and check it out. With the two of us together on live TV, you never know what we might say!" ACM CEO Bob Romeo says he's very happy with the pairing -- which he points out was Reba's idea. He recalls, quote, "Last year Reba and Blake read our nominations and they were just magic together, incredibly funny. When Reba suggested inviting Blake to join her, the Academy could not have been more pleased -- we know the viewers will be blown away by their comic chemistry."
The 46th annual ACM Awards will mark Shelton's hosting debut, while Reba will be making her 13th appearance at the helm of the show. The event will take place in Las Vegas, and air on CBS on April 3rd. Nominees will be announced in February.