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Okay, so the dust has settled on the 2026 ACM Awards and WOW. We saw some HUGE wins, some surprising upsets, and honestly, a few moments that made us scream at the TV. Did your absolute fave snag a trophy? Let’s break down everything you need to know, like, yesterday.
1. Entertainer of the Year: Lainey Wilson DOMINATES!
Look, nobody is shocked, right? Lainey Wilson is just on FIRE. Taking home Entertainer of the Year is HUGE. She’s been absolutely killing it for years, and this feels like the ultimate validation. We’re living for this moment, no cap.
2. Male Artist of the Year: HARDIN WINS AGAIN!
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Okay, so HARDIN has been on a roll, but did you see the competition? Jelly Roll, Morgan Wallen… it was STACKED. Him winning Male Artist of the Year again just proves he’s still the one to beat in country music right now. I’m not mad about it.
3. Female Artist of the Year: Kelsea Ballerini SHINES!
OMG, Kelsea! Finally getting Female Artist of the Year feels so deserved. Her album was everywhere, and her live performances? Chef’s kiss. This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for. So happy for her, honestly!
4. Album of the Year: ‘Starlight Serenade’ takes the crown!
This was a tough category, but ‘Starlight Serenade’ by Riley Green really captured the hearts of voters. It’s got that classic country feel with a modern twist. If you haven’t listened, what are you even doing?
5. Song of the Year: ‘Whiskey River Dreams’ is a BOP.
This song has been on repeat for us. Written by Zach Bryan, but performed by a new artist, Maeve O’Connell. It’s so raw and emotional. We’re lowkey obsessed with the storytelling here. Goosebumps, every single time.
6. Duo of the Year: The Brothers Osborne are legends.
Can we just talk about how consistent The Brothers Osborne are? They always bring the heat. Winning Duo of the Year AGAIN just cements their status. Total mood for sibling goals.
7. Vocal Group of the Year: Midland keeps it cool.
Midland just has that vibe, you know? They brought retro cool back to country, and it’s working. Winning Vocal Group of the Year? Makes total sense. We love their harmonies, always have.
8. New Artist of the Year: Megan Moroney SLAYS!
This was SO exciting! Megan Moroney has been blowing up, and New Artist of the Year is a massive win for her. Her energy is infectious, and we can’t wait to see what she does next. Get ready, world!
9. Music Event of the Year: ‘Carolina Calling’ ft. Carrie Underwood & Luke Combs.
Okay, this collaboration was EVERYTHING. Carrie and Luke? A match made in country heaven. This win is just proof that when legends team up, magic happens. We’re still singing along.
10. Video of the Year: Luke Combs’ ‘Fast Car’ still hits DIFFERENT.
The ‘Fast Car’ video is just so visually stunning and tells such a powerful story. It deserved this win, hands down. It’s a reminder of how music videos can elevate a song. We’re crying, we’re singing, we’re obsessed.
11. Musical Event of the Year: ‘The Long Road Home’ – A Surprise Win?
This was a bit of an underdog win! The song by newcomer Wyatt Flores featuring the legendary Dolly Parton. Honestly, I didn’t see it coming, but it’s a beautiful track. It just goes to show you never know who might surprise you.
12. The Most Talked-About Performance: HARDIN’s emotional tribute.
Okay, we need to talk about HARDIN’s performance. It was raw, it was powerful, and it had everyone in tears. He dedicated it to his late mentor, and the emotion was palpable. Total standing ovation moment. We’re still not over it.
FAQs
Who hosted the ACM Awards 2026?
This year, the ACM Awards were hosted by the hilarious duo of Miranda Lambert and Keith Urban! They totally brought the laughs and kept the show moving.
Were there any major snubs at the ACM Awards 2026?
Honestly, there are always snubs, right? Some fans were surprised Morgan Wallen didn’t take home Male Artist of the Year, but it was a super competitive year!
Where can I watch the ACM Awards 2026 highlights?
You can catch highlights and full performances on the official ACM Awards YouTube channel or on CBS.com if you missed the live show!
So there you have it! The 2026 ACM Awards were a wild ride. Who were your biggest winners? Did anyone surprise you? Let us know in the comments below – and don’t forget to share this with your fellow country music obsessed besties!
