The 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMs) promises to be an unforgettable evening, scheduled to take place on Sunday, 17 May in Las Vegas. This year’s ceremony will be broadcast live on Prime Video and Amazon Music, giving fans across the globe the chance to witness their favourite country music artists in action.
A host of new performers has been confirmed for the lineup, adding to the excitement surrounding the event. Among those set to take the stage are country music sensations Blake Shelton, Kane Brown, and rising star Ella Langley. They will contribute to an already impressive roster that includes Dan + Shay, Kacey Musgraves, Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett, and Lainey Wilson, among others.
The inclusion of new talents such as Langley highlights the ACMs’ commitment to showcasing both established and emerging artists in the country music scene. Langley, Shelton, and Brown are set to join previously announced performers like Avery Anna, Jordan Davis, and Riley Green, making it a night filled with diverse musical offerings to suit all tastes.
Shania Twain will be hosting the event for the first time, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. The iconic singer expressed her excitement about the role, stating, “I’m thrilled to be hosting the 61st ACM Awards in Las Vegas, a place that feels like home.” Twain emphasised the importance of the night, particularly with the numerous talented women featured among the nominations this year. Her enthusiasm for the event has been palpable as she prepares to welcome fans and artists alike for what she hopes will be an unforgettable occasion.
Each year, the ACMs offer a platform for the celebration of outstanding achievements in country music, and this year is no exception. Megan Moroney leads the nominations count with an impressive nine nods, while Lambert follows closely with eight. Both Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson have received seven nominations, showcasing a strong presence from innovative female artists in the industry.
Chris Stapleton has garnered six nominations, while Zach Top and Cody Johnson trail with five and four respectively. The highly sought-after Entertainer of the Year category features a stellar lineup that includes Moroney, Wilson, Stapleton, Johnson, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, and Morgan Wallen. Wilson, who won the award in the previous year, may face stiff competition as she vies for the honour once more.
Fans can look forward to new music being premiered during the show, with artists like Kacey Musgraves set to showcase tracks from her forthcoming album, “Middle of Nowhere”. Additionally, Lainey Wilson’s eagerly awaited song “Can’t Sit Still” will make its debut, alongside Riley Green’s performance of “Change My Mind”. These new releases are sure to be highlights of the evening.
The show will unfold at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, a landmark venue in Las Vegas that has been host to numerous memorable performances over the years. For fans unable to attend in person, the live streaming options offered through Prime Video and Amazon Music will allow for a broader audience to celebrate the night alongside their favourite artists.
As the ACM Awards approach, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a dazzling display of talent, creativity, and the spirit of country music. With an impressive array of performers, a respected host at the helm, and a wealth of nominations reflecting the diversity of the genre, the 2026 ACMs are set to capture the hearts of fans worldwide.