Country Music’s Biggest Night Belonged to Ella Langley at the 2026 ACM Awards

Kristina Hemel
May 18
2 min read

*Ella Langley at 61st ACM Awards. Photo: Getty Images for ACM Awards*

The 61st Academy of Country Music Awards took over Las Vegas Sunday night with huge performances, emotional speeches, surprise moments, and a breakout night for one of country music’s fastest rising stars, Ella Langley. Hosted by Shania Twain at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the ACM Awards celebrated the biggest names in country music with fans watching worldwide on Prime Video.

The biggest headline of the night was Ella Langley’s incredible sweep. Langley went a perfect 7 for 7 on her nominations, cementing herself as one of country music’s hottest stars.

*Cody Johnson at the 61st ACM Awards. Photo: Getty Images for ACM Awards*

Another huge moment came when Cody Johnson captured his first ever ACM Entertainer of the Year award. During his emotional acceptance speech, Johnson dedicated the award to fellow nominee Luke Combs.

Fans also saw performances from some of country music’s biggest stars including Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, and Riley Green.

2026 ACM Awards Major Winners

Entertainer of the Year — Cody Johnson
Female Artist of the Year — Ella Langley
Male Artist of the Year — Cody Johnson
Duo of the Year — Brooks & Dunn
Group of the Year — The Red Clay Strays
Song of the Year — “Choosin’ Texas” by Ella Langley
Single of the Year — “Choosin’ Texas” by Ella Langley
Music Event of the Year — “Don’t Mind If I Do” by Ella Langley and Riley Green
Artist-Songwriter of the Year — Ella Langley
Songwriter of the Year — Jessi Jo Dillon
New Female Artist of the Year — Avery Anna
New Male Artist of the Year — Tucker Wetmore

*Tucker Wetmore at the 61st ACM Awards. Photo: Getty Images for ACM Awards*

Interesting Facts From the 2026 ACM Awards

Ella Langley became the first artist in ACM history to sweep all seven nominated categories in one night.
Brooks & Dunn extended their ACM record with another Duo of the Year victory.
The show featured a special tribute to Willie Nelson for his birthday celebration.
Megan Moroney entered the night with the most nominations but skipped the ceremony to serve as maid of honor in a wedding.
Shania Twain hosted the ACM Awards for the first time ever.
Although nominated in several categories, Morgan Wallen did not walk away with an award this year.