Lainey Wilson has emerged victorious once again, claiming the prestigious Entertainer of the Year title at the 2025 Academy of Country Music Awards. The 32-year-old country star triumphed over a competitive field of nominees, including Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton, and Morgan Wallen. Wilson’s win marks a consecutive victory for her, having also secured the same honor last year.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, delivered on May 8, 2025, at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, Wilson expressed her deep gratitude to her fellow nominees and fans. “Thank you so much,” she said while accepting the award from Blake Shelton. “I love every single one of y’all in this category, and y’all have taken me under y’all’s wings, taken me out on the road with you, asked me to be on songs, supported me in every way that you possibly can.”
Reflecting on her success, Wilson candidly admitted to grappling with imposter syndrome but acknowledged the importance of accepting her achievements with an open heart and mind. “If something is given to you, then you need to accept it with an open heart and an open mind,” Wilson shared, drawing from a piece of advice that resonated with her.
Wilson’s victory was not limited to just Entertainer of the Year. She also took home the Female Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Whirlwind, and Artist-Songwriter of the Year awards. Her emotional speech continued as she recalled a childhood memory of her sister shining a hunting spotlight on her while she performed in their living room. “I dreamed about entertaining,” Wilson said, reflecting on her lifelong passion for music and her desire to evoke emotions in her audience. “I love making people feel things. I love making people laugh and smile and cry. I’m sorry, I like making people cry,” she added.
What does Lainey Wilson’s journey to the top mean for the future of country music? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
According to US Magazine, Wilson, who was nominated for six ACM Awards this year, beat out notable nominees such as Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, and Chris Stapleton, who have all enjoyed significant recognition in the country music scene. This year, Wilson also earned nominations for Female Artist of the Year, Song of the Year for “4x4xU”, and Visual Media of the Year for the same song.
As reported by People, Wilson’s emotional journey was shared with the world during her acceptance speech, where she reflected on her childhood dreams of stardom. “I remember being a little girl and I would climb out on the top of our roof… and I’d dream about being up there in one of those planes,” Wilson recalled. Her heartfelt words continued as she thanked her fans for supporting her throughout her career: “I really do have the best fans in the world.”
The award show, which was live-streamed on Prime Video, also saw breakout star Ella Langley leading the nominations with eight total nods. Wallen, Wilson, and Johnson followed with seven nominations each, while Chris Stapleton garnered six nominations.
Lainey Wilson’s victory at the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards serves as a testament to her rising star and enduring presence in the country music industry. Her powerful performances and unwavering connection with her fans continue to cement her status as one of the genre’s most captivating and influential artists.
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