Comedian Matt Rife Took a Shot at Morgan Wallen Missing the AMAs

While Morgan Wallen was far from the only country artist to skip out on the 2026 American Music Awards, he was singled out by comedian Matt Rife.

What Did Matt Rife Say About Morgan Wallen at the American Music Awards?

Rife was on hand to present the award for Breakthrough Country Artist at the AMAs on Monday (May 25).

Wallen was not nominated in the category, but that didn't stop the comedian from taking a jab at the country singer's awards show attendance record.

He even brought in a stand-in for Wallen.

"And actually, making his very first AMA appearance, Morgan Wallen is here," he shouts into the microphone as the camera pans to the imposter in the audience.

The lookalike had the right shaggy hair sticking out of the bottom of his Red Clay Strays hat and a mustache, but sadly, it was not the country hitmaker.

"I'm kidding, why would you even look?" Rife says with a laugh.

Missing In Action: Country Stars Who Skipped the 2026 ACM Awards

"Of course that's not him," he continues. "He hates awards shows. He'll never be here, ever. He's too busy selling out two shows on the moon, right now."

His comments were meant to be a joke. If anyone is going to sell out a show on the moon, it would definitely be Wallen. He's just that popular. It's why he won Best Male Country Artist at this year's AMAs, which are entirely fan-voted.

Why Doesn't Morgan Wallen Go to Awards Shows?

The last time Wallen attended an awards show was in 2023, when he performed on stage with Post Malone and Hardy at the 57th annual CMA Awards.

Although the "Don't We" singer has never publicly addressed why he skips out on these events, his absence is not specifically related to these glamorous nights. It's rare for Wallen to be out at public events unless it's one of his own shows or an event for a friend.

Instead, you'll find him at home during his free time, hanging out with his son Indigo and making music.

30 Best Morgan Wallen Songs Every Fan Should Know by Heart

You'll find largely singles in this Top 30 countdown of Morgan Wallen's best songs and biggest hits. But we've scattered in a few songs found deep within Wallen's three albums, If I Know Me and his record-breaking double albums Dangerous and One Thing At a Time.

We've even included a few early favorites from his 2025 project, I'm the Problem.