The 2026 edition of the Academy of Country Music Awards turned into one of the most record-breaking nights in country music history. Held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 17, the ceremony delivered milestone wins, career-defining victories, and the end of several major streaks that had dominated the ACMs for years.

Leading the historic sweep was Ella Langley, who became the first artist ever to win seven ACM Awards in a single year. Her victories surpassed the previous record of six wins in one ceremony, previously achieved by Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, and Chris Stapleton. After winning five ACM trophies in 2025, Langley has now collected 12 ACM Awards in just two years, another all-time record.

The night also saw several longtime streaks come to an end while other legends extended their dominance. Cody Johnson secured his first entertainer of the year win, while Miranda Lambert added two more ACM trophies to extend her all-time record total to 35 awards. Meanwhile, The Red Clay Strays ended Old Dominion’s eight-year reign as group of the year.

Adding even more nostalgia to the evening, Shania Twain hosted the show as artists celebrated both new milestones and enduring legacies. From breakout stars rewriting history books to veteran acts proving their staying power, the ACM Awards delivered a night country music fans are unlikely to forget anytime soon.

The record-setting wins weren’t the only moments getting fans talking throughout the night.

Gwen Stefani’s sons shine at ACM Awards during Blake Shelton's performance

While the ACM Awards celebrated major victories onstage, fans also loved seeing Blake Shelton sharing a sweet family moment during the ceremony. During his tribute performance of 'The Gambler' honoring late songwriter Don Schlitz, Gwen Stefani’s sons Zuma and Apollo were seen enthusiastically singing and dancing along from the audience.

Social media clips from the night also captured Shelton warmly hugging Apollo backstage, giving fans another glimpse into his close bond with Gwen’s children. Gwen Stefani did not attend the awards due to her busy schedule with the No Doubt residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas, though Shelton recently joked about the couple being booked at competing venues on the same nights.

The 2026 ACM Awards ultimately became more than just another awards show. It was a night where records fell, careers reached new heights, and country music celebrated both its future and its legends all at once.

What was your favorite moment from the 2026 ACM Awards? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Karishma Dasgupta

Edited by

Aliza Siddiqui