As we honor the late Leslie Jordan and the impact he left on the entertainment industry, we have to take a moment to look back at his legendary Grand Ole Opry debut.
Leslie Jordan took to the Grand Ole Opry stage on May 22, 2021 for the first time and delivered a performance that was brimming with joy, humor, and heartfelt moments.
The entertainment icon performed heartfelt renditions of classic hymns on stage, accompanied by Vince Gill, Charlie Worsham, and TJ Osborne, all contributing their vocal and musical talents.
In true Leslie Jordan fashion, Leslie sported a custom-made electric blue suit with fringe and hand embroidery for his Grand Ole Opry debut.
“I just put together a little something ’cause I didn’t want to draw too much attention to myself,” Jordan said to a crowd of laughter. “Y’all may know me as an actor. I’m not a singer. I’m really not. I don’t know why I’m here. Well, actually, they invited me. They really did. They sent an email. I can show it to you, if you’re wondering.”
“I’m a hymn singer. I grew up on hymns. I love hymns. So, we’re going to start with ‘Workin’ on a Building,’” he added. Afterward, a little out of breath, Jordan joked, “I’m too old for this. You know, when you’re acting, you just get out there, and they’ll say cut or if you mess up, they’ll say, ‘Well, cut, we’ll go again.’ If I mess up here, that’s the end of it.”
Leslie also gave a lively performance of “Will The Circle Be Unbroken,” with TJ Osborne and Vince Gill.
He also wowed the crowd with “In The Sweet By And By,” alongside TJ Osborne.
See more from Leslie’s Opry debut on an episode of Circle Network’s My Opry Debut below:
A Tribute To Leslie Jordan
As we continue to remember the legacy of Leslie Jordan, Circle Network is offering viewers an exclusive opportunity to honor Leslie like never before.
On Saturday, April 29, Leslie’s heavenly birthday, Circle Network will air “Reportin’ For Duty: A Tribute to Leslie Jordan,” for the first time. Filmed at the iconic Grand Ole Opry House in February, the one-of-a-kind special features an intimate collection of performances and storytelling moments from some of Jordan’s closest friends across Nashville and Hollywood, such as Mayim Bialik, Jim Parsons, and Max Greenfield. Musical tributes will include performances by Brothers Osborne, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Lukas Nelson, Maren Morris & Ryan Hurd, Tanya Tucker. Each song and story shares insights into some of Jordan’s lasting life lessons and experiences and showcases the impact he had on everyone around him.
Watch “Reportin’ For Duty: A Tribute to Leslie Jordan” on Saturday, April 29 at 10/9c pm on Circle Network, or livestream it on Facebook or YouTube or watch below right here!
Click HERE to read more about Leslie Jordan.
