Cody Johnson took home country music’s highest honor Sunday night, winning Entertainer of the Year at the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards 2026, while rising star Ella Langley delivered a dominant performance by sweeping five major awards.
The star-studded event, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and hosted for the first time by Shania Twain, aired live exclusively on Prime Video. The show celebrated both established icons and a new wave of talent in a memorable night for the genre.
Johnson also won Male Artist of the Year. In a heartfelt acceptance speech, the Texas native dedicated his Entertainer of the Year win to fellow nominee Luke Combs.
Ella Langley emerged as the night’s biggest winner, taking home:
- Female Artist of the Year
- Single of the Year
- Song of the Year
- Music Event of the Year
- Artist-Songwriter of the Year
Her hit “Choosin’ Texas” with Riley Green powered much of her success throughout the evening.Other notable winners:
- Avery Anna – New Female Artist of the Year
- Tucker Wetmore – New Male Artist of the Year
The show featured powerful performances from Lainey Wilson, Cody Johnson, Ella Langley, Dan + Shay, Blake Shelton, Thomas Rhett, Kacey Musgraves, Riley Green, The Red Clay Strays, Zach Top, and others.
Fans and celebrities took to social media to celebrate the winners:
“Ella Langley and Cody Johnson sweeping all the major awards… We are officially in a good spot at the top in this genre. Love it.” — #ACMAwards
“THATS A CLEAN SWEEP! Ella Langley takes home FIVE ACM Awards tonight, the most of any artist!”
“Cody Johnson Wins Entertainer of the Year… and Surprises Fans by Dedicating It to Fellow Nominee Luke Combs”
Additional fan reactions included:
- “Ella Langley is THAT girl tonight ”
- “Cody Johnson is the real deal — Entertainer of the Year well deserved!”
- “Proud of these new voices taking over country music”
The red carpet featured glamorous appearances by Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, Shaboozey, Riley Green, and host Shania Twain, whose warm personality and energy set the tone for the evening.
The 2026 ACM Awards marked a successful return to Las Vegas after several years in Texas. The Prime Video broadcast highlighted country music’s expanding global audience.
Manglemba Naorem excels in delivering comprehensive and insightful coverage on a wide array of topics, from World News and Current Affairs to NBA and Soccer. His passion for keeping readers informed is reflected in his in-depth analysis and timely updates on global events and sports. Manglemba’s commitment to online media ensures that his readers are always at the forefront of knowledge.
Manglemba Naorem
View More PostsManglemba Naorem excels in delivering comprehensive and insightful coverage on a wide array of topics, from World News and Current Affairs to NBA and Soccer. His passion for keeping readers informed is reflected in his in-depth analysis and timely updates on global events and sports. Manglemba’s commitment to online media ensures that his readers are always at the forefront of knowledge.
