Shania Twain and Shaboozey led the ACM Awards audience in wishing Willie Nelson a happy 93rd birthday during the 2026 ceremony in Las Vegas on Sunday night.
Twain Takes the Stage
As the show's host, Twain invited the audience to join her in celebrating Nelson's milestone. Shaboozey captured the moment on video before presenting the single of the year award. Nelson, who won this award in 1982 for "Always on My Mind," was honored, though this year the award went to Ella Langley for "Choosin' Texas."
Honoring ACM Hosts
During her opening, Twain acknowledged previous ACM Awards hosts as she launched the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards. It was Twain's first time hosting, marked by Lainey Wilson's dynamic performance of “Can’t Sit Still” and Twain's entrance to her hit “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” She recalled winning her first ACM Award 30 years ago for her album Come On Over.
New Album Announcement
Twain shared her musical journey, starting at age 8 but gaining her first top 10 hit at 30. Her new album, Little Miss Twain, reflects this journey, and is set to release in July. Twain expressed gratitude, citing past hosts like Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton as inspirations.
Looking Back and Ahead
Twain revisited a clip of Dolly Parton announcing her as the entertainer of the year in 2000. Despite being absent due to travel, Twain appreciated Parton accepting the award on her behalf, expressing hopes for Parton's return to the stage following recent health concerns. Cody Johnson won entertainer of the year this time.
Although Twain did not perform, she confirmed the ACM Awards would return to Las Vegas in 2027. She succeeded Reba McEntire as host, who presided over the event 18 times, including the previous two years. Twain, a five-time ACM awardee, reflected on the opportunity to connect with both established and emerging artists.
The ACM Awards are produced by Dick Clark Productions, under Penske Media Eldridge, a joint venture with Penske Media Corporation and Eldridge, which also owns The Hollywood Reporter.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/music/music-news/shania-twain-shaboozey-willie-nelson-happy-birthday-acm-awards-1236598144/
