Any true country music fans know that over the past decade, the genre has been hijacked by artists who are anything but country, and at least one legend in the business isn't afraid to show his disdain for that.

According to the Daily Mail, country music icon George Strait went viral during the most recent Country Music Awards ceremony for his facial expressions as he watched several performances that many would describe as "bro country" and "pop country."

Strait's facial expressions through several of those types of performances made it clear that the King of country music is not impressed with the current state of the genre.

Fans across social media reacted to Strait's various expressions as he suffered through the new age, so-called "country" music performances before he accepted a prestigious award.

What happened?

Strait, like most big players in the business, showed up to the CMAs ready for a solid night of music performances and awards.

The country music icon was honored with the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, which he graciously accepted.

The Daily Mail noted:

But before he came to the stage to accept the award, George had to sit through performances from the likes of Lainey Wilson, Jamey Johnson, Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood – and audiences were quick to point out that he didn't look very impressed.

His facial expressions were priceless, and many who were watching at home knew exactly why he was making them.

George Strait was NOT having it during the #CMAawards. 👀 He looked like he was trying to figure out what the hell he’s watching; and wondering what happened to country music. Same here, to be honest.

Do better @CountryMusic #countrymusic #bringbackcountrymusic #CMAAwards2024 pic.twitter.com/OXRwAwiEbH

— VaiN | ThunderStruckSquirrel (@TSSquirrel) November 22, 2024

Users across social media observed that it appeared Strait was "disgusted at the state of country music."

Social media reacts

Strait's facial expressions had social media users in hysterics.

"George Strait is setting there at the [CMAs], saying to himself, where am I at? Country has gone to this?" one X user wrote.

Another X user wrote, "I don't even recognize 90% of the names and faces anymore. George looks like he'd rather be anywhere else."

It would be difficult to blame Strait for his reaction, as the genre has fallen extremely far since his glory days.