The West Wing actor Mary McCormack is stepping in for Joe Mantegna to co-host the National Memorial Day Concert in a last-minute change.
McCormack, 57, will lead the 37th annual concert with Forrest Gump actor Gary Sinise, after Mantegna, who has hosted the annual concert for nearly two decades, dropped out of PBS’s TV event due to what the Tony-winning actor described as “unforeseen circumstances.”
“I truly wish I could be there in person this year but due to unforeseen circumstances, I need to remain in Los Angeles,” Mantegna said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to joining the millions of Americans watching this Sunday’s concert on PBS and continuing to do everything I can to support this important event for years to come.”
Capital Concerts announced the hosting shake-up days after confirming that Mantegna and Sinise — who first co-hosted the event together in 2006 — planned to resume their roles as longtime hosts of the show, which honors U.S. military members and veterans for their service.
McCormack, who is known for her roles in shows like In Plain Sight and Heels, said in a statement that she is honored to co-host the broadcast as the daughter of a U.S. Marine.
“What makes this concert so powerful is the way it tells the larger story of service and sacrifice,” she said. “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.”
Before stepping into her new role as co-host, the actor performed in the annual concert in the past nine years by delivering readings and tributes.
This year’s concert is set to honor America’s 250th anniversary. The broadcast will feature appearances by Noah Wyle, who has co-starred with McCormack on The Pitt and ER, as well as actors Melissa Leo and Jonathan Banks. The show will also include performances by Alan Jackson, Andy Grammer, Laura Osnes, Mickey Guyton, Jamey Johnson and Blessing Offor. The National Symphony Orchestra will also perform under the direction of Jack Everly.
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The 37th annual National Memorial Day Concert airs live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Sunday from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Eastern on PBS and YouTube.
