The 61st ACM Awards are less than three weeks away, airing live May 17 from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Prime Video, with host Shania Twain. The anticipation has been building throughout April as we witness Stagecoach 2026, Morgan Wallen’s Las Vegas dominance, and album announcement after announcement. Here’s our final preview of the major categories and award-night predictions.
Entertainer of the Year Race
The Entertainer of the Year race remains wide open. Morgan Wallen’s Allegiant Stadium shows and touring dominance heading into May 17 give him momentum. Lainey Wilson’s Stagecoach headline and defending champion status keep her competitive. Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, and Megan Moroney round out the top five. Prediction: Morgan Wallen edges out Lainey Wilson, but it’s genuinely unpredictable.
Other Major Category Predictions
- Female Artist of the Year: Lainey Wilson or Megan Moroney
- Male Artist of the Year: Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, or Jelly Roll
- Group/Duo of the Year: Little Big Town likely favorite
- Album of the Year: Multiple strong candidates; highly competitive
Host Shania Twain Sets the Tone
Shania Twain hosting the 61st ACM Awards ensures the show maintains prestige, humor, and genuine connection. Her presence elevates the entire event and grounds it in country music’s legacy while celebrating contemporary excellence.
The 61st ACM Awards on May 17 will celebrate country music’s finest. Keep following Sunset Country Fest for final predictions, red carpet coverage, and live award show updates.
📌 Sources & References
Frequently Asked Questions
How are country music award nominees selected?
Nominees are selected by industry professionals or recording academy members depending on the specific award. Eligibility is based on music released within the qualifying calendar year.
Where can I watch the awards show live?
Major country awards shows air on major broadcast networks and are also available for streaming. Check the official show website for broadcast schedules and streaming options.
Can fans vote for their favorite artists?
Some awards categories are fan-voted. Check the official awards show website for voting eligibility, instructions, and deadlines during the voting period.
⚠️ Disclaimer — Important Notice
The information published in this article is based on publicly available data from official sources, press releases, and music industry publications available at the time of writing. Tour dates, ticket prices, venue details, setlists, album release schedules, award nominations, lineup announcements, and all other details referenced in this article are subject to change at any time without prior notice.
Sunset Country Fest makes no representations or warranties — express or implied — regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of any information contained herein. All changes, cancellations, rescheduling, postponements, or modifications to any events, releases, tour dates, award results, or announcements referenced in this article are the sole responsibility of the artists, record labels, talent agencies, concert promoters, venues, and any other third parties involved.
Sunset Country Fest shall not be held liable for any decisions, travel arrangements, ticket purchases, or other actions taken by readers based on the information published here. We strongly encourage all readers to verify current details — including dates, venues, ticket availability, and event status — directly through official artist channels, venue box offices, and authorized ticketing platforms before making any plans or purchases.
Last updated: May 10, 2026 · Sunset Country Fest Editorial Team · Contact Us