Lainey Wilson to Host 2026 CMA Awards

Lainey Wilson is set to host the 2026 CMA Awards, becoming the first woman to solo-host the event twice. The 60th annual ceremony will broadcast live from Nashville's Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT.

Wilson has previously hosted the CMA Awards, solo-hosting in 2025 and co-hosting in 2024 with Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning. She follows in the footsteps of other notable female hosts, including Dolly Parton, who was the first woman to solo-host the CMA Awards in 1988, and Reba McEntire, who hosted in 1991.

The 2026 CMA Awards will air on ABC and Disney+, and be available on Hulu the next day. Nominations for the awards will be announced on Thursday, September 10, on ABC's Good Morning America and the CMA's official YouTube channel.

The 60th Annual CMA Awards is a production of the Country Music Association, with Robert Deaton as Executive Producer, Alan Carter as Director, and Jon Macks as Head Writer. This milestone event will celebrate the best in country music, with over 7,000 professional voting members of the Country Music Association determining the nominees and winners.

## Why it matters The CMA Awards are a significant event in the country music industry, recognizing excellence in music, performance, and production. With Lainey Wilson at the helm, the 2026 ceremony is expected to be an exciting and memorable celebration of country music's biggest stars and emerging talent. As the first woman to solo-host the CMA Awards twice, Wilson's involvement is a testament to her talent and dedication to the genre.

## What happens next The road to the 2026 CMA Awards begins with the nomination announcements on September 10. Fans can tune in to ABC's Good Morning America and the CMA's official YouTube channel to find out who will be vying for the top awards. With the ceremony just a few months away, country music fans can look forward to an unforgettable night of music, performances, and celebration.