2025 ACM Honors: A Night of Tributes, Surprises, and Country Music Family Spirit
The Academy of Country Music hosted its 18th ACM Honors on Wednesday (Aug. 20) at The Pinnacle at Nashville Yards, once again proving why it’s often called “the Country Music industry’s favorite night.” The sold-out event brought together artists, fans, songwriters, and industry leaders for an evening dedicated to celebrating the people who make the genre thrive behind the scenes.
Backstage, the energy was just as vibrant as on stage. Luke Bryan and HARDY were spotted relaxing in their dressing room, Ashley McBryde added the finishing touches to her look, and rising star Tucker Wetmore prepared for his Honors debut, performing “Already Had It” and presenting the ACM Industry and Studio Recording Awards. The atmosphere carried the excitement of both a family reunion and a star-studded celebration.
Hosted by Carly Pearce and Russell Dickerson, the show opened with a lively tribute to Johnny Cash, honoring the 1991 ACM Pioneer Award recipient with a duet of his classic “Jackson.” From there, the evening rolled out an array of emotional speeches, show-stopping performances, and memorable surprise moments that kept the audience on its feet.
Along with the on-stage highlights, the event gave way to countless reunions, with artists mingling and snapping photos with friends and fellow honorees, underscoring the strong sense of community that defines the Nashville scene.
Fans who couldn’t attend in person will soon get the chance to relive the evening. A special three-hour broadcast, CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition, will air Saturday, Sept. 27, featuring exclusive backstage interviews, must-see performances, and all the highlights from the 18th ACM Honors. The televised special will be co-hosted by CMT’s Cody Alan and Carissa Culiner, alongside Pearce and Dickerson.
