Your Complete Guide to the 2026 ACM Honors Event
Award show will honor Eric Church, Lainey Wilson, and more.
Written by Amanda Tempel
The 18th Academy of Country Music Honors took place on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at The Pinnacle, located at Nashville Yards. The event recognizes artists, musicians, songwriters, and industry members who elevate the country music genre. Keep reading for details on how you can watch the ACM Honors on TV!
“We are thrilled to bring the country music industry’s favorite night, ACM Honors, to The Pinnacle, Nashville’s newest live music venue, next month,” said Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. “This is an exciting time for the Academy as we reimagine this special night through new partnerships and a new format that will elevate the show’s impact.”
Who is Hosting the ACM Honors?
Carly Pearce repeats her role as ACM Honors host for the fifth time. Joining her will be fellow country star Russell Dickerson.
Carly says, “I’m excited to return as host of ACM Honors for the fifth year in a row. This night holds a special place in my heart because it shines a light on the songwriters, musicians, and industry voices who make what we do possible. It’s truly one of my favorite nights of the year. It will be such a full circle moment to co-host with one of my oldest friends in Nashville, Russell Dickerson.”
Russel Dickerson added, “It’s a real honor to be hosting ACM Honors for the first time—especially at The Pinnacle, in the heart of Nashville,” says Dickerson. “This night is all about giving credit to the folks who keep the wheels turning behind the scenes, and I’m proud to be part of it. Getting to team up with Carly and celebrate the industry we love so much is going to be one for the books.”
2025 ACM Honors Performers
Here’s a list of performers and songs from the 2025 ACM Honors:
Carly Pearce and Russel Dickerson - “Jackson”
Carter Faith and and Karen Fairchild - “Lies Lies Lies” penned by ACM Songwriter of the Year Jessie Jo Dillon.
Ashley Gorley - “I Am Not Okay” - Honoring Jelly Roll’s ACM Lifting Lives Award.
Amy Grant - “All These Years” - Honoring ACM Poets Award winner Mac McAnally.
Chris Janson - “Music Man” - A tribute to ACM Icon Award recipient Ben Vaughn.
Jamey Johnson - “Three Wooden Crosses” - Recognizing ACM Milestone Award honoree Randy Travis.
Medley: Miko Marks - “I’m Still Here,” Madeline Edwards - “Country Girl,” K. Michelle - “Seeds” - A tribute to ACM Lift Every Voice Award recipient Rissi Palmer.
Tucker Wetmore - “Already Had It” - Celebrating ACM Film Award recipient “Twisters.”
HARDY - “Homebody” - Surprise performance honoring ACM Icon Award winner Eric Church.
Ashley McBryde - Medley: "Beer Never Broke My Heart," “Honky Tonk Highway,” "When It Rains It Pours," "Beautiful Crazy," "Where the Wild Things Are," and "Whoever You Turn Out to Be” for ACM International Award winner Luke Combs.
Victoria Shaw - “The River” - Celebrating ACM Service Award recipient Lori Badgett.
Luke Bryan - “Til You Can’t” - Honoring Merle Haggard Spirit Award winner Cody Johnson.
CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition
The Academy of Country Music is partnering with CMT to bring fans all the highlights from this year’s show. CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition airs on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
The three-hour special will be hosted by CMT’s Cody Alan and Carissa Culiner, along with 18th ACM Honors hosts Russell Dickerson and Carly Pearce, featuring exclusive backstage conversations with honorees and performers, memorable moments from throughout the night, and exclusive performances to air only in the broadcast.
“We are proud to partner with CMT to share the magic of ACM Honors with fans across the country,” says Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. “This collaboration allows us to take our community’s most heartfelt night beyond the walls of The Pinnacle and into living rooms nationwide, giving viewers an up-close look at the incredible artists, songwriters, and industry professionals whose passion and hard work shape the music we love. We can’t wait for fans everywhere to experience what makes ACM Honors so special.”
“Our special episode of CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition will bring fans an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at one of Country’s most meaningful nights, celebrating the incredible talent and hard work that drives our industry both on and off stage. It’s an honor to share these well-deserved awards and heartfelt performances with viewers coast-to-coast,” said Margaret Comeaux, Executive Producer & SVP, Production for CMT.
Who will be recognized at the 2026 ACM Honors?
ACM Icon Award - Eric Church and Ben Vaughn
This award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group or industry leader who, throughout their career, has advanced the popularity of the genre through their contributions in multiple facets of the industry, such as songwriting, recording, production, touring, film, television, literary works, philanthropic contributions, and other goodwill efforts. Both Eric Church and Ben Vaughn will receive the award.
Eric Church
Eric Church, who has received seven ACM Awards, has continually pushed the boundaries of the genre, blending elements of blues, rock, and outlaw country while continuing to explore new, unique sounds and inviting the genre to follow. As he approaches the two-decade mark of defining what country music can be, he continues to further expand his influence as a leader, serving as a North Star for rising artists while also using his platform for good. His fearless approach to both his music and his career path has made him a lasting influence and a true icon of country music.
Ben Vaughn
Ben Vaughn is receiving the Icon Award in recognition of his extensive and influential career that spanned over four decades, solidifying his legacy as a voice for both emerging and superstar artists in the music industry. Serving as President and CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville until his passing, Vaughn played a pivotal role in the development of numerous artists and songwriters, including Chris Stapleton, Thomas Rhett, Dan + Shay, Lady A, Kacey Musgraves, and many others.
ACM International Award - Luke Combs
Inspired by Jim Reeves, the award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the growth of country music throughout the world.
Luke Combs blends traditional country sounds with elements that appeal to a worldwide audience and has become a global sensation. Combs’ global reach is evident in his streaming success. With over 10 billion streams and 25 million monthly listeners across all platforms, he’s a true international presence. His tours have sold out venues in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Australia, showcasing his global fanbase. Combs' success is a bridge between country music's American roots and the rest of the world.
ACM Film Award - “Twisters”
“Twisters” has been chosen to receive the ACM Film Award, inspired by Tex Ritter, which recognizes an outstanding television movie, series or feature film released during the preceding calendar year which prominently features country music. The 2024 summer blockbuster, from Universal Pictures, Warner Bros., and Amblin Entertainment, was directed by Oscar nominee Lee Isaac Chung and stars Daisy Edgar Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos. “Twisters,” features an unprecedented 29 original tracks from esteemed and diverse country artists, marking it as the first film soundtrack since 1980's “Urban Cowboy” to showcase a completely original country music compilation.
ACM Lift Every Voice Award - Rissi Palmer
This award is presented to a country music artist, duo/group, industry leader or affiliate/partner who plays a pivotal role in elevating underrepresented voices throughout the Country Music genre, transcending demographics and geography.
Grammy-nominated artist Rissi Palmer has had an incredible impact on the Country Music genre by breaking barriers and actively uplifting voices. In 2007, Palmer became the first Black woman in 19 years to chart a Country song on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart with “Country Girl.” Rissi is the creator and host of Color Me Country Radio with Rissi Palmer, a groundbreaking Apple Music radio show.
ACM Lifting Lives Award - Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll is receiving the ACM Lifting Lives Award for his immense contributions in his philanthropic work. Showcasing heart on every step of his career, he partnered with Live Nation to donate $1 from every ticket sold on his Backroad Baptism Tour, raising over $600,000 for at-risk youth. Beyond raising money, he has visited over 10 juvenile facilities, 4 rehabilitation centers, and numerous homeless shelters to use his growing platform as a beacon of hope and resilience. His commitment to using his platform for positive change extends to national reach.
ACM Milestone Award - Randy Travis
Randy Travis was instrumental in helping launch the New Traditionalist Movement in the genre, influencing so many artists from Clint Black to Chris Stapleton. Following a life-altering stroke in 2013, his courage has become a symbol of resilience. He has since been honored with many tributes at Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry, as well as become a prominent voice for advocating stroke awareness and healthcare rights in the industry.
He continues to pioneer the future of country music, incorporating AI-assisted vocals to reimagine and revive old and never-before-heard songs, allowing for the preservation of a unique sound that defined a generation of the genre.
ACM Poet’s Award - Mac McAnally
The three-time ACM Award nominee didn’t just write his own music, he had his songs recorded by Jimmy Buffett, who later became a good friend of McAnally’s, Sawyer Brown, Kenny Chesney, Alabama, Shenandoah, and more. He credits his affinity for literature at a young age for helping shape the depth of his music, whether it be turning a conversation into a layered story or digging deep into the experiences of his childhood. The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer and GRAMMY nominee isn’t afraid to go deep in his songs, making him one of Nashville’s most respected and humble songwriters of the generation.
ACM Service Award - Lori Badgett
This award is presented to an outstanding country music artist, duo/group or industry leader in recognition of years of dedication and service to the Academy of Country Music.
Over the course of more than 25 years, Lori Badgett has become a vital force in both the music industry and her hometown of Nashville, blending financial expertise with a passion for giving back. A key figure at City National Bank, Lori helped establish the bank’s presence in Nashville and now plays an integral role in serving a majority of the city’s country music professionals.
ACM Spirit Award - Cody Johnson
This award is inspired by Merle Haggard and is presented to a singer-songwriter who is continuing the legacy of country music legend and 20-time ACM Award recipient Merle Haggard by following his/her own path, crafting great songs and epitomizing Merle’s spirit through genuine performances and great storytelling.
Before signing to a major label, Cody Johnson built his fan base entirely from the ground up. His unwavering commitment to traditional country values and his Texas roots have set him apart in a time when the genre often trends toward pop. With nearly 10 billion global streams, Johnson’s sound resonates deeply with heartland America and pays homage to the spirit of Merle Haggard’s timeless storytelling.
ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year Award - Lainey Wilson
This award is presented to an individual known both as an artist and a songwriter, selected by a Professional Panel of judges whose members are songwriters, publishers, producers, and performing rights organization (PRO) representatives. The Panel submits five nominees, at which time ACM members in the Artist/Musician/Producer/Engineer, Songwriter, Music Publisher/PRO and Record Company categories vote for the winner. This win brings Lainey Wilson’s ACM Awards count to sixteen.
ACM Songwriter of the Year Award - Jessie Jo Dillon
This award is presented to an individual known predominantly as a songwriter, selected by a professional panel of judges composed of songwriters, publishers, producers, and performing rights organization (PRO) representatives. The Panel submits five nominees, at which time ACM members in the Artist/Musician/Producer/Engineer, Songwriter, Music Publisher/PRO and Record Company categories vote for the winner. This is Jessie Jo Dillon’s second ACM Award and second consecutive win in the category after earning the title in 2024.
Tucker Wetmore presented the ACM Studio Recording and Industry Awards. Tucker says, “It means a lot to be part of a night that celebrates the unsung heroes of country music. The players, the engineers, the venues, the people behind the scenes - they’re the heartbeat of this industry, and I’m honored to tip my hat to them.”
Industry Award Winners:
Casino of the Year - Theater: The Theater at Virgin Hotels – Las Vegas, NV
Casino of the Year - Arena: Harveys Lake Tahoe – Stateline, NV
Festival of the Year: Windy City Smokeout – Chicago, IL
Faith/Rodeo of the Year: Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – Houston, TX
Club of the Year: Joe’s on Weed St. – Chicago, IL
Theater of the Year: The Caverns – Pelham, TN
Outdoor Venue of the Year: BankNH Pavilion – Gilford, NH
Arena of the Year: Moody Center – Austin, TX
Don Romeo Talent Buyer of the Year: Gil Cunningham – Neste Live
Promoter of the Year: Aaron Spalding – Live Nation
Studio Recording Award Winners:
Bass Player of the Year: (Tie) Mark Hill & Craig Young
Drummer of the Year: Aaron Sterling
Acoustic Guitar Player of the Year: Tim Galloway
Electric Guitar Player of the Year: Brent Mason
Piano/Keyboards Player of the Year: Alex Wright
Specialty Instrument Player of the Year: Jenee Fleenor
Audio Engineer of the Year: Drew Bollman
Producer of the Year: Dave Cobb
Don’t miss a three-hour special episode of CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition on Saturday, Sept. 27.
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