The 2026 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards are set to take place on Sunday, May 17, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The ceremony will be broadcast live on Prime Video and Amazon Music, allowing fans around the world to join in the celebration of country music’s finest talents from the past year.
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One of the most anticipated aspects of this year’s awards is the hosting debut of iconic country star Shania Twain. Twain, who has won five ACM Awards throughout her career, expressed her delight at the opportunity, noting that Las Vegas feels like a homecoming for her. “It’s such an honour to be part of this incredible night celebrating Country Music’s biggest stars,” she said. Twain’s presence is expected to add an extra layer of excitement to what is already shaping up to be a memorable night.
Leading the nominations this year is Megan Moroney, who has been nominated in nine categories. Close behind her are Miranda Lambert with eight nods, and Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson each with seven. Their nominations highlight the strong representation of female artists at this year’s ceremony, reflecting the evolving landscape of the country music genre. Other notable nominees include Chris Stapleton, receiving six nominations, and Zach Top, who has five.
In a particularly competitive category, Moroney, Wilson, Stapleton, and others are vying for the coveted Entertainer of the Year award. This recognition is a significant achievement within the industry and showcases the talents of these artists. Additionally, first-time nominees such as 49 Winchester, Avery Anna, Mackenzie Carpenter, and Emily Ann Roberts will also have their moments in the spotlight.
The awards night will not only be about accolades but will also feature a stellar lineup of performances. Lainey Wilson is set to debut her new song “Can’t Sit Still,” while Riley Green will perform “Change My Mind.” Moreover, Kacey Musgraves will introduce a track from her upcoming album, “Middle of Nowhere.” Other acts gracing the stage include Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Cody Johnson, Blake Shelton, and Kane Brown, promising an exhilarating evening for fans of country music.
In addition to the impressive roster of performers, the list of presenters is equally star-studded. Among them are Andrew Whitworth, Ashley McBryde, Keith Urban, and Michael Bublé, who are set to add their own flair to the proceedings. Their participation illustrates the collaborative spirit of the country music community as they come together to honour their peers.
For those wishing to tune in to the 2026 ACM Awards, the event will commence live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena, providing ample opportunity for fans to witness the celebration of their favourite country music artists. The ceremony promises to be a night filled with emotion, recognition, and incredible performances, connecting fans and artists in a shared love for the genre.
As the date approaches, anticipation for the 2026 ACM Awards continues to build, with many eager to see how the nominations play out and which artists take home the prestigious awards. The combination of live music, heartfelt speeches, and the thrill of award announcements ensures that May 17 will be a highlights reel for country music aficionados.
In conclusion, the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards signifies not just a celebration of musical achievements but also the ongoing evolution of the genre, particularly through the lens of diversity and inclusion. With a host like Shania Twain at the helm, and an impressive lineup of nominees and performers, this year’s ACM Awards are set to be an unforgettable evening.