Women Dominate 2026 ACM Awards Nominations

Megan Moroney, Ella Langley, and Lainey Wilson lead the pack with multiple nods.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:40pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of several shiny, metallic country music award statuettes under dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting, capturing the prestigious and glamorous nature of the ACM Awards.The 2026 ACM Awards nominees reflect the growing influence and success of female country artists, with the ceremony's glamorous trophies taking center stage.Las Vegas Today

The nominees for the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards have been revealed, with female artists taking center stage. Megan Moroney leads the pack with nine nominations, followed closely by Miranda Lambert with eight. Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson each earned seven nods, continuing a strong showing for women in country music this year. Among male artists, Chris Stapleton, Zach Top, and Cody Johnson also received multiple nominations.

Why it matters

The ACM Awards have long been seen as a barometer for the state of country music, and this year's nominations reflect the growing influence and success of female artists in the genre. The strong showing of women could signal a shift in the industry, potentially opening up more opportunities and recognition for female performers.

The details

The race for Entertainer of the Year includes a star-studded lineup: Moroney, Wilson, Stapleton, Johnson, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, and Morgan Wallen. Wilson took home the honor last year and is once again in contention. Several artists earned their first ACM nominations, including 49 Winchester, Avery Anna, Mackenzie Carpenter, Carter Faith, Caroline Jones, Vincent Mason, Emily Ann Roberts, Thelma & James, Hudson Westbrook, and Stephen Wilson Jr.

  • The 61st Academy of Country Music Awards will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
  • The ceremony will air live at 8 p.m. ET on Prime Video.

The players

Megan Moroney

A rising country music star who leads the 2026 ACM Awards nominations with nine nods.

Miranda Lambert

A veteran country artist who earned eight nominations for the 2026 ACM Awards.

Ella Langley

A country singer-songwriter who received seven nominations for the 2026 ACM Awards.

Lainey Wilson

A country music artist who earned seven nominations for the 2026 ACM Awards and is the reigning Entertainer of the Year.

Chris Stapleton

A male country artist who leads the male nominees with six nods for the 2026 ACM Awards.

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What they’re saying

“The strong showing of women in this year's ACM nominations is a testament to the incredible talent and artistry in country music. It's an exciting time for the genre, and I can't wait to see these incredible performers take the stage.”

— Kacey Musgraves, Country Music Artist

“I'm honored to be nominated alongside so many talented female artists. Country music is thriving, and I'm proud to be a part of it.”

— Lainey Wilson, Country Music Artist

What’s next

Tickets to the 2026 ACM Awards are now available for purchase, and fans can tune in to the live broadcast on Prime Video on May 17th to see which artists take home the top prizes.

The takeaway

The 2026 ACM Awards nominations showcase the growing influence and success of female country artists, signaling a potential shift in the industry and a bright future for women in country music.