When Shania Twain returned to the spotlight as host of the 2024 People’s Choice Country Music Awards, expectations were high. With decades of influence behind her, she has long “redefined what a country star could look like, sound like, and represent.” At 59, she remains a global icon, making her hosting role at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry House seem like a natural fit. Still, as the night unfolded, reactions proved far more mixed than expected.

The ceremony on September 26 blended tradition and modern spectacle in a venue “steeped in history.” As host, Twain was responsible for setting the tone, balancing legacy with the present. While some viewers felt her presence added credibility and star power, others watched with nostalgia, hoping for “classic Shania” rather than a modern version. Social media scrutiny amplified every moment.

Her fashion choices quickly became the focal point. Twain cycled through multiple outfits, including a white fringe suit, a corset-and-cape ensemble, and a “shimmering red gown” praised by official event accounts. Supporters admired her confidence and evolution, while critics felt the looks were distracting for a country awards show, reviving debates about authenticity in the genre.

More divisive than her wardrobe was her hosting style. Some praised her warmth and charm, while others labeled moments as “awkward” or lacking energy. In an era favoring viral humor, her presence-driven approach didn’t land with everyone, especially compared to comedian-style hosts.

Much of the backlash reflected deeper issues of aging and expectations. Some want her frozen in the 1990s, while others celebrate her refusal to fade. By night’s end, one thing was clear: Twain kept attention on herself. Love her or critique her, she remains “impossible to ignore,” and that lasting relevance is its own statement.