Country singer Bill Anderson has been celebrated by the Grand Ole Opry as its longest-serving member, marking 65 years since he joined the show on 15 July 1961. The milestone recognises a career that spans classic hits such as "I Get the Fever" and "Still" and songwriting collaborations with artists including Vince Gill, Kenny Chesney and George Strait, and highlights his enduring connection to the Opry throughout decades of touring and television work.

The anniversary was marked with a special event attended by friends, family and fellow performers, featuring tributes from Brad Paisley, Garth Brooks, Carly Pearce, Steve Wariner and Dolly Parton. Lorrie Morgan presented Anderson with a blue sapphire ring set with a European-cut diamond on behalf of the Opry, while executive producer Dan Rogers praised him for always returning to the venue he calls home, adding that the Opry looked forward to "the next 65" years.