Kellie Pickler Returns to Stage for First Time Since Husband’s Death

Published: April 26, 2024

Kellie Pickler Returns to Stage for First Time Since Husband’s Death

By Movieguide® Contributor

Editor’s note: The following story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know battles harmful thoughts, please dial 988 for help.

Kellie Pickler took to the stage for the first time in over a year to honor Patsy Cline during the Walkin’ After Midnight concert.

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was incredibly nervous right now,” Pickler told the audience before her performance. ‘It’s the first time I’ve been up on stage in a while. I will say that I am incredibly honored to be a part of honoring Ms. Patsy Cline. She is a huge reason why I fell in love with music.”

Pickler performed “The Woman I Am,” a song she wrote with her husband “over a decade ago.”

“I know he is here with us tonight,” she added.

Pickler’s husband, Kyle Jacobs, was found dead in their home in February 2023. His death was later confirmed to be a suicide by the Davidson Country Medical Examiner.

Pickler and Jacobs wed in 2011 and starred in their own reality TV show from 2015 to 2017. Though Jacobs enjoyed giving fans an honest look at his and Pickler’s relationship, being on TV came with its difficulties.

“I’m a singer, songwriter, producer back in Nashville. I’m not an on-camera guy. I’m used to being behind the scenes,” he told TODAY in 2016.

While Pickler has struggled since his passing, she expressed her gratitude for the friends, family and fans who continue to reach out despite her silence.

“It has truly touched my soul and it’s helping me get through the darkest time in my life,” she said. “As many of you have told me, you are all in my prayers.”

While Pickler has yet to fully return to the stage, it is encouraging to see her perform as she continues to mourn the loss of Jacobs.

Movieguide® previously reported on Pickler’s collaborations:

Carrie Underwood is stunning listeners with her rendition of “Silent Night” for Circle Network’s upcoming Opry Live: USO Holiday Special.

The country singer is one of many stars who were chosen to celebrate America’s servicemen and veterans. Lauren Alaina, Luke Combs, Jessie James Decker, Craig Morgan, Josh Turner and The War & Treaty will all perform for the holiday special, with Kellie Pickler serving as host.

“We are grateful to have the iconic Grand Ole Opry host this special and the talented artists bring a bit of home to our service members and military families,” said Christopher Plamp of USO in a press release about the special event. “We hope this holiday special reminds each of us of the sacrifices made on our behalf every day by our brave men and women who serve our country.”