Country Star Trace Adkins Survived Being Shot by Wife 32 Years Ago

The '90s country icon was forced to undergo emergency open-heart surgery after the 1994 domestic dispute.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Trace Adkins, a prominent country music star, survived being shot through the heart and lungs by his second ex-wife during a domestic dispute 32 years ago on February 21, 1994. Adkins was rushed to the hospital and underwent emergency open-heart surgery to survive the gunshot wounds. Despite the traumatic incident, Adkins chose not to press charges against his ex-wife, stating "It wasn't my time to go." Now happily remarried, Adkins is celebrating his 30th career anniversary with a U.S. tour.

Why it matters

This story highlights the personal struggles and near-death experiences that some famous musicians have faced, even as they achieve success in their careers. Adkins' resilience and ability to move forward after such a traumatic event is an inspiring example of overcoming adversity.

The details

In 1994, during a domestic dispute with his second ex-wife Julie Curtis, Trace Adkins was shot through the heart and both lungs. Adkins had tried to disarm Curtis during the argument over his excessive drinking, but was unsuccessful. Despite the severe injuries that required emergency open-heart surgery, Adkins chose not to press charges against his ex-wife, saying "It wasn't my time to go." Adkins has since recovered and gone on to have a successful 30-year country music career, recently announcing a U.S. tour to celebrate the milestone.

  • On February 21, 1994, Trace Adkins was shot by his ex-wife.

The players

Trace Adkins

A prominent country music star who survived being shot through the heart and lungs by his ex-wife in 1994.

Julie Curtis

Trace Adkins' second ex-wife, who shot him during a domestic dispute in 1994.

Victoria Pratt

Trace Adkins' current wife, whom he married in 2019.

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What they’re saying

“It wasn't my time to go.”

— Trace Adkins (People)

What’s next

Adkins is currently on a U.S. tour celebrating his 30-year country music career, with upcoming tour dates through September 2026.

The takeaway

Trace Adkins' story of surviving a near-fatal gunshot wound and going on to have a successful 30-year music career is a testament to his resilience and ability to overcome personal struggles. His experience highlights the challenges that even famous musicians can face in their personal lives.