National Memorial Day Concert Finds New Co-Host After One Star’s Sudden Departure
on May 26, 2026
One of the co-hosts of the 2026 National Memorial Day Concert on Sunday, May 24th, had to step down from his role.
When PBS revealed the lineup for this year’s National Memorial Day Concert, Americans were excited to see that Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna were returning as hosts. The actors have co-hosted the event several times, which is held each year on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
However, Mantegna suddenly withdrew from hosting this year’s concert, leaving the program in need of a last-minute replacement. They thankfully found the perfect person for the job, as West Wing actress Mary McCormack stepped up to host alongside Sinise.
McCormack previously co-hosted the concert with Mantegna in 2019. Additionally, she’s the daughter of a U.S. Marine, so the National Memorial Day Concert means a great deal to her personally.
“What makes this concert so powerful is the way it tells the larger story of service and sacrifice,” McCormack said in a press release. “It reminds us of what military service asks of individuals and families, and how much gratitude we owe them. I’m honored to join as co-host of this year’s broadcast. It’s one of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever been a part of, and I wouldn’t miss it for anything.”
Joe Mantegna Explains Why He Withdrew From Hosting The National Memorial Day Concert
Mantegna also released a statement in the same press release. He explained the reason why he had to step down from hosting the event, saying:
“I truly wish I could be there in person this year but due to unforeseen circumstances, I need to remain in Los Angeles.”
Mantegna followed up with an additional statement on social media. He said that he hoped this year:
“…would be [his] opportunity to personally close this remarkable chapter, to take part in one final concert celebrating something that has been so deeply meaningful to me for so many years.”
However, Mantegna said that “last minute scheduling and family commitments made it increasingly difficult to be there this year.” Mantegna knew he didn’t want to participate in the concert if he couldn’t give it his “whole heart.”
Mantegna emphasized that his “deep love and respect” for the National Memorial Day Concert will never change or waver.
He ended his post by writing, “May we never forget the true meaning of Memorial Day.” You can read his full statement below.
Alan Jackson, Jamey Johnson, & More Performed During This Year’s Concert
The 2026 National Memorial Day Concert featured a star-studded lineup, including country artists Jamey Johnson, Mickey Guyton, and Alan Jackson.
Johnson, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, performed a powerful rendition of his hit song “In Color.” Guyton had the honor of singing the National Anthem during the program.
Jackson, whose performance was pre-recorded at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, delivered a moving rendition of “Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning).”
Jackson’s performance was especially notable, since he rarely makes televised appearances these days. He plans to officially retire from live performances after one final show in Nashville on June 27.
Watch Johnson, Guyton, and Jackson’s performances in the videos below. Hats off to these country stars for honoring our fallen heroes…
