Carly Pearce revealed her mother's reaction to her outspoken response to a heckler during a recent concert, sharing that while her mother disapproved of her language, she understood her motivation and the importance of standing up for herself.
Country music star Carly Pearce recently made headlines for her response to a heckler during a concert, where she called out the rude fan and had them escorted out of the venue. While her actions garnered support from many, some criticized her for using profanity.
In a joint interview with CMA Honors co-host Jordan Davis, Pearce discussed the incident and her mother's reaction. Pearce revealed that her mother, Jackie Slusser, had expressed disapproval of her language but understood her motivation.
Carly Pearce Stands Her Ground: Mother's Reaction to Concert Heckler Incident
"Of course, people were like, 'You could have used a different word' or 'You could have had a little bit more reserve.' And I mean, my mom agreed," Pearce said. "She was like, 'You didn't have to say that word.' And I was like, 'I understand.'"
Pearce emphasized that artists put their hearts and souls into their performances and should not be subjected to disrespect. She added that she believes women in country music are often held to a different standard than men, which can be frustrating.
Carly Pearce Stands Her Ground: Mother's Reaction to Concert Heckler Incident
"I think as a female in country music — I've talked to a few of my other female friends in the industry, and it's like, 'The boys do it, and it's cool', but if I do it, it's like, 'She's being disrespectful,'" Pearce explained.
However, Pearce also stressed the importance of accountability and the need for people to be kind to one another. "But at the end of the day, I want people to stand up for themselves," Pearce said. "And you shouldn't bully people, whether it's on social media, at a show, like, we're human beings, too. And it's just not nice. And I think people should just be kinder."
Carly Pearce Stands Her Ground: Mother's Reaction to Concert Heckler Incident
Pearce and Davis agreed that the incident showcased a different side of her personality. "I think they saw a different side," Pearce said. "It's always been in there, that Kentucky side. Don't mess with me."
The altercation occurred during Pearce's tour with fellow country musician Tim McGraw, who has since canceled the remaining 2024 dates due to orthopedic surgery. Pearce herself has been dealing with a heart condition but continues to perform while managing her health.
Carly Pearce Stands Her Ground: Mother's Reaction to Concert Heckler Incident
In addition to discussing the concert incident, Pearce and Davis shared highlights from their experience hosting the CMA Honors together. They both expressed gratitude for the opportunity to honor Alan Jackson and Chris Stapleton for their contributions to country music and revealed their admiration for Luke Bryan's charitable work.
The 17th Annual Academy of Country Music Honors will air on September 24th on Merit Street, showcasing a celebration of the genre's most influential artists and their impact on the world.
Carly Pearce Stands Her Ground: Mother's Reaction to Concert Heckler Incident
