The Academy of Country Music Awards 2026 returns this year. This year, the 61st edition, is huge. There’s a new host, a new venue, and new exciting nominations on this year’s show, so whether you’re a country music enthusiast or someone who enjoys the awards shows, this one is definitely worth watching.
When and where is the Academy of Country Music Awards 2026 show happening?
The Academy of Country Music Awards 2026 will be held on May 17, 2026, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. This is a big deal for fans because the show is leaving the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, just north of Dallas, after three years there. Las Vegas always brings extra energy to these nights. The MGM Grand Arena provides the perfect setting for one of the biggest celebrations in country music.
Who is hosting the Academy of Country Music Awards 2026?
Shania Twain will host the awards, stepping in for the first time. She is taking over from Reba McEntire. She is a fourteen-time nominee and three-time winner, including Entertainer of the Year, and has also received the Academy of Country Music Awards 2026 Poet’s Award. Shania as a host is a perfect choice. She knows country music inside out and brings real star power to the room.
Who is leading the nominations this year?
Megan Moroney has nine nominations and currently tops the nomination list. Miranda Lambert follows with eight nominations, while Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson each have seven nominations. Chris Stapleton gets six nominations, Zach Top with five, and Cody Johnson with four in this year’s ACM Awards.
One fun milestone worth noting — Megan Moroney earns her first-ever nomination for Entertainer of the Year this time around. That’s a huge achievement for her career.
Who is fighting for entertainer of the year?
This is always the most talked-about category. Those competing for Entertainer of the Year are Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, Cody Johnson, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Morgan Wallen, and Megan Moroney. That is one strong lineup. Can she make it three straight? Or will someone finally knock her off the top spot? That question alone makes this year very exciting.
What albums are up for album of the year?
In the Album of the Year nomination, the nominees include Morgan Wallen’s ‘I’m the Problem’, Zach Top’s ‘Ain’t In It For My Health‘, Riley Green’s ‘Don’t Mind If I Do’, Parker McCollum (self-titled), and Carter Faith (debut) with her album ‘Cherry Valley‘. Carter Faith is receiving large amounts of attention regarding this nomination.
Who is performing live at the Academy of Country Music Awards 2026 ceremony?
The performances are always a highlight, and the Academy of Country Music Awards 2026 delivers a fantastic lineup. The performers’ list includes Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, Zach Top, Carter Faith, Lainey Wilson, Cody Johnson, Riley Green, and Kacey Musgraves. Also, Little Big Town, Blake Shelton, Dan + Shay and others. That covers new voices and established legends all in one night. It is going to be a full evening of live country music.
Where can you watch it live?
The streaming will be available on both Prime Video and the Amazon Music platform. If you have an Amazon Prime account, you’ll be ready to go. The partnership between the Academy of Country Music and Prime Video has now been extended for another 4 years.
The Academy of Country Music Awards 2026 is going to be memorable for sure. Numerous highlights, including Shania Twain being a first-time host and Megan Moroney receiving the most nominations in history. Also, new acts like Carter Faith will have their chance to shine, while established artists, such as Miranda Lambert, continue to change the record books. Don’t forget to mark May 17 in your calendar.
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