Shania Twain Shares Heartfelt Gratitude Opening The ACM Awards
on May 18, 2026
Shania Twain Hosts The 61st Annual ACM Awards
The brightest stars in country music descended upon the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, for the 61st ACM Awards on May 17th. Established in 1966, it is the longest-running country music awards show.
In the weeks leading up to the annual celebration, details were gradually revealed for the evening, which promised “unprecedented performances, exclusive collaborations, and unexpected moments from the biggest Country Music stars.”
On April 22nd, three-time ACM Award winner Shania Twain was announced as host for the 2026 ceremony. She shared in a press release:
“I’m thrilled to be hosting the 61st ACM Awards in Las Vegas, a place that feels like home. It’s such an honor to be part of this incredible night celebrating Country Music’s biggest stars, especially with so many talented women leading nominations this year. I can’t wait to welcome all of the fans and artists out for this unforgettable night.”
Shania follows in the footsteps of country icons who have hosted before her, including Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, and Dolly Parton.
Shania Twain Kicks Off The Show
Dazzling in a glittering gold gown, Shania Twain took the ACM stage immediately following Lainey Wilson’s opening performance of “Can’t Sit Still.” She began:
“Like Lainey, I cannot sit still either, I’m telling you. I’m so full of energy and excitement that I’m hosting the concert of the year for my first time ever!”
Shania welcomed esteemed guests for the evening, including Blake Shelton, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, and more. The “Man” I Feel Like A Woman” singer reminisced on her long history with the ACMs. She received her first award from the institution in 1996, exactly 30 years ago.
Additionally, shared that her upcoming album, Little Miss Twain, was written about her journey from singing in bars to becoming a highly awarded country artist. The album drops this July. She added:
“What a time is this for country music. Our songs and storytellers are everywhere, from your local honky tonk to this global stage.”
See the opening of the 61st annual ACM Awards with Shania Twain below!
