The 2026 ACM Awards were a spectacle of country music's finest, with a mix of familiar faces and surprising newcomers. While some expected the night to be a repeat of previous years, the ceremony delivered a few unexpected twists and turns. Here's a deep dive into the snubs and surprises that made this event memorable.
The Big Winners
The night's biggest surprise came in the form of Ella Langley's "Choosin' Texas," which swept the single and song of the year categories. This was a well-deserved win for the artist, whose relatable and crafted lyrics have resonated with audiences. The Red Clay Strays, Brooks & Dunn, and Cody Johnson also took home awards, solidifying their status as country music's elite.
Cody Johnson's win for male artist of the year was a testament to his talent and hard work. His entertainer of the year win was particularly notable, as he competed against heavyweights like Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, and newcomers Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Jelly Roll, and Megan Moroney. Johnson's previous wins, including song of the year for "Dirt Cheap," further solidified his place in country music history.
The Snubs
Megan Moroney, the top nominee with nine nominations, left the ceremony empty-handed. Her absence from the ceremony, citing a wedding commitment, only added to the intrigue. Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, and Zach Top also experienced snubs, with Wilson going 0-7, Stapleton 0-6, and Top 0-5. Stapleton's pursuit of George Strait's record as the most awarded male artist was momentarily halted.
Morgan Wallen's highly successful album "I'm the Problem" was overlooked for album of the year, despite topping the Billboard 200 for 13 weeks. Similarly, Kelsea Ballerini's nine nominations for female artist of the year ended in a snub, mirroring Anne Murray's record of nine nominations without a win. Shaboozey, Gavin Adcock, and Dasha also missed out on new artist awards for the second consecutive year, with Tucker Wetmore and Avery Anna taking the wins.
The Surprises
The music event of the year award went to Riley Green and Ella Langley for the second consecutive year, "Don’t Mind If I Do." This win marked a rare feat, as they became the first twosome to win in this category back-to-back since Faith Hill and Tim McGraw. Parker McCollum's album of the year win for his fifth studio album was a significant surprise, given his limited previous wins.
The Takeaway
The 2026 ACM Awards showcased the diverse and dynamic nature of country music. While some expected outcomes were met, the snubs and surprises kept the audience on their toes. From rising stars to seasoned veterans, the ceremony celebrated the very best of the genre, leaving fans eager for the next edition.
