Must-See Moments From ACM Honors 2025
See behind the scenes of “the Country Music industry’s favorite night.”
Luke Bryan with Randy Travis, Carly Pearce with Russell Dickerson; Photos by John Shearer/Getty Images for ACM
The Academy of Country Music hosted its 18th ACM Honors on Wednesday evening at The Pinnacle at Nashville Yards. Often called “the Country Music industry’s favorite night,” the sold-out show brought together fans, songwriters, industry leaders and artists to honor the people behind the scenes with unforgettable live tributes.
The evening was filled with standout moments both on and off the stage. From Luke Bryan and HARDY kicking back in the dressing room to Ashley McBryde putting the finishing touches on her look and breakout star Tucker Wetmore gearing up make his Honors debut with a performance of “Already Had It” while also presenting the ACM Industry and Studio Recording Awards, the celebration was buzzing with excitement from start to finish.
There was also no shortage of epic reunions happening throughout the evening as artists made sure to snag photos with their fellow hitmakers while showing their support for this year’s honorees, making it a true family affair in Music City.
Hosted by Carly Pearce and Russell Dickerson, the 2025 ACM Honors kicked off with the pair of country acts paying homage to 1991 ACM Pioneer Award winner Johnny Cash with a duet of “Jackson.” From that moment on, the night continued to unfold with powerful performances, emotional speeches, and plenty of surprises.
Fans will have the chance to experience all the magic through exclusive backstage interviews and can’t-miss highlights airing during a special three-hour, CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition. Hosted by CMT’s Cody Alan and Carissa Culiner, alongside 18th ACM Honors co-hosts Dickerson and Pearce, the star-powered show will broadcast Saturday, Sept. 27 as part of a partnership between the Academy of Country Music and CMT.
Keep reading to find snapshots of some of the must-see moments from this unforgettable night.
Madeleine O’Connell graduated from North Central College with a bachelors degree in Journalism and Broadcast Communications before deciding to pursue her studies further at DePaul University. There, she earned her masters degree in Digital Communication & Media Arts. O’Connell served as a freelance writer for over two years while also interning with the Academy of Country Music, SiriusXM and Circle Media and assisting with Amazon Music’s Country Heat Weekly podcast. In addition to Country Now, she has been published in American Songwriter, Music Mayhem, and Holler.Country. Madeleine O’Connell is a member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.
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