Lainey Wilson hosts the 2026 CMA Awards
Get ready for some country music celebration, because the stage is set for a historic moment at the 60th annual CMA Awards.
Lainey Wilson is making history by returning to solo-host the CMA Awards, setting a benchmark for female artists. She is poised to be the first woman to solo-host the event twice. Last year, she shared the spotlight with Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, but this year, Wilson is taking the reins alone, promising an extra special broadcast.
The anticipation is palpable as the event approaches. The 60th annual CMA Awards will broadcast live on ABC and Disney+ and will be available next day on Hulu, airing on Wednesday, November 18th at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT, live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
Wilson isn’t just returning as a host; she’s marking her own impressive trajectory in the music industry. Already holding 12 CMA Awards in just three years, she sits among the elite female artists. She trails only Miranda Lambert, who has amassed 14 awards, cementing her status as a powerhouse.
Her journey into hosting is complemented by a rich history of musical royalty. While Wilson is making history in hosting, the role itself has been shared by legends like Dolly Parton in 1988 and Reba McEntire in 1991.
The history of the CMA Awards features several legendary pairings. Longtime solo hosts include Vince Gill, who has solo-hosted the show the most times, alongside Johnny Cash, Tennessee Ernie Ford, and Kenny Rogers. Milestone broadcasts have seen incredible pairings, such as Brooks & Dunn and Carrie Underwood at the 50th annual ceremony.
As the nominations for the 60th annual CMA Awards are revealed on Thursday, September 10th, the excitement will only grow. The awards are determined by over 7,000 Professional voting members of the Country Music Association. Fans can secure tickets for the event starting Friday, September 18th at CMAworld.com/tickets.
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