‘SNL’ drops Morgan Wallen after he’s seen maskless at party

Morgan Wallen has been dropped from performing on “Saturday Night Live” after breaking the show’s COVID-19 protocols.

The country singer posted a two-plus minute video on social media Wednesday about the show’s decision. He apologized after he was shown on TikTok socializing maskless at a crowded bar and house party this past weekend in Alabama.

Wallen was announced earlier as a musical guest for this Saturday’s show. The singer was emotional during his post, saying he respects the show’s decision.

The 27-year-old Wallen said his actions were “short-sighted” and has affected his long-term goals and dreams. “On a personal note, I think I have some growing up to to. I’ve tried to find joy in the wrong places,” he said in his Instagram video. “I’m gonna take a step back from the spotlight a little bit and go work on myself.”

Wallen added that he respects the decision by “SNL” creator/executive producer Lorne Michaels to remove him from the lineup and that a future appearance is a possibility.

Wallen has not tested positive for the coronavirus.

The show has not announced a replacement for Wallen. Justin Bieber is scheduled to perform on next week’s episode on Oct. 17.

Earlier this year Wallen apologized to his fans after a public incident resulted in his arrest after he was kicked out of Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk Rock N’ Roll Steakhouse in downtown Nashville.

At the time Wallen said on Twitter that he and some friends were “horseplaying” after a few bar stops.

Wallen’s hits include “Whiskey Glasses” and “Chasin’ You.” He competed on “The Voice” in 2014 and co-wrote songs for Jason Aldean and Kane Brown.