Get ready to applaud some of country music’s brightest stars.
The genre’s elite gathered on May 17 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas for the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards, recognizing some of the top talents in the industry.
Hosting the evening was the legendary Shania Twain. Leading the pack with nine nominations was Megan Moroney, known for her hit “Am I Okay?” Meanwhile, Miranda Lambert, another Female Artist of the Year contender and the most decorated artist in ACM history, was close behind with eight nominations.
Also in the spotlight were Yellowstone star Ella Langley and newlywed Lainey Wilson, who both received seven nods and are in the running for Female Artist of the Year.
Moroney and Wilson are set to compete against Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton, Cody Johnson, Luke Combs, and Morgan Wallen for the coveted Entertainer of the Year award.
Even before the show started, though, the Academy had crowned multiple winners. Indeed, “Fear in God” singer Avery Anna won New Female Artist of the Year, while “Sunburn” singer Tucker Wetmore earned the New Male Artist equivalent.