ACM HONORS 2026 HOSTS STAR-STUDDED CEREMONY

The 19th annual Academy of Country Music Honors ceremony was held at The Pinnacle in Nashville on August 19. Hosted by Carly Pearce and Parker McCollum, the evening hosted some of the most popular superstars in country music, as well as legendary artists who’ve made an exceptional impact on the industry forever.

Some of the highlights of the show included Megan Moroney’s tribute to co-writer, collaborator and friend Jessie Jo Dillon with “Beautiful Things,” Kaitlin Butts, Carter Faith, and Carly Pearce’s stunning rendition of Dolly Parton’s “9-5,” and Dierks Bentley’s emotional tribute to the late Brett James.

Featuring very special appearances by Brenda Lee, Dolly Parton, and Ella Langley, the traditionally heartwarming event did not disappoint. See the full list of winners below.

2026 ACM Honors Recipients
Bill Anderson – ACM Icon Award
Brett James – ACM Poet’s Award 
C2C: Country to Country – ACM International Award
The Carter Family – ACM Poet’s Award
Ella Langley – ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year
Eric Church – ACM Lifting Lives Award
Jessi Jo Dillon – ACM Songwriter of the Year
Kacey Musgraves – ACM Spirit Award 
“Landman” (Paramount+ Hit Television Series) – ACM Film Award 
Leslie Fram – ACM Lift Every Voice Award
Mike Curb – ACM Icon Award
Scott Zolke – ACM Service Award

L-R: ACM Lift Every Voice Award Recipient Leslie Fram and Trisha Yearwood
Photo Credit: Terry Wyatt / Getty Images for ACM