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Lainey Wilson just got the royal invitation home. The reigning Entertainer of the Year will dominate the 61st ACM Awards stage this May. Get ready for her epic Las Vegas performance.`
🔥 Quick Facts
- Event: 61st Academy of Country Music Awards on May 17, 2026
- Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada
- Performance: Lainey Wilson premieres ‘Can’t Sit Still’ for first time on live stage
- Broadcast: Prime Video (8 p.m. ET, 7 p.m. CT, 5 p.m. PT) on Sunday
Rising Country Queen Takes Center Stage at Major Awards
Lainey Wilson joins Cody Johnson and Riley Green as the first performers announced for the 2026 ACM Awards. The 16-time ACM Award winner has earned her spot as one of country music’s biggest voices. She’ll deliver an unforgettable moment when she takes the Las Vegas stage this spring with her brand-new track.
This marks Wilson’s triumphant return to the ACM Awards platform after winning massive recognition at recent ceremonies. Her selection alongside established stars underscores the academy’s commitment to celebrating both emerging talent and reigning superstars in country music.
Lainey Wilson to perform at 61st ACM Awards in Las Vegas
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World Premiere of ‘Can’t Sit Still’ Coming to Las Vegas
Fans across 240 territories will witness Lainey Wilson’s exclusive world premiere for ‘Can’t Sit Still’. This represents a major moment for the artist, who has experienced meteoric rise through her music and acting work on Yellowstone. The energetic new track promises to showcase her signature country sound with unmistakable passion.
The 61st ACM Awards will stream live exclusively on Prime Video, Twitch, and Amazon Music, reaching a global audience. Sunday, May 17 will deliver unprecedented performances and unexpected collaborations throughout the evening at the iconic MGM Grand Garden Arena.
Performance Lineup Details and Event Information
| Factor | Details |
| Date | Sunday, May 17, 2026 |
| Venue | MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, NV |
| Broadcast Time | 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. PT |
| Platform | Prime Video, Twitch, Amazon Music |
Co-performers Cody Johnson, winner of 2025 ACM Song of the Year, and Riley Green, a 4-time ACM Award winner, complete the first wave of announced talent. More performers will debut in the coming weeks, building momentum toward one of country music’s biggest nights.
“Reigning Entertainer of the Year and 16-time ACM Award recipient Lainey Wilson returns to the ACM Awards stage with the world premiere performance of ‘Can’t Sit Still.'”
— Academy of Country Music, Official Press Release
Why the ACM Awards Matters for Country’s Future
Founded in 1964 as a regional trade organization, the Academy of Country Music has grown into a leading powerhouse with over 5,000 members worldwide. The 61st ceremony continues its legacy of recognizing both emerging artists and established country superstars. Lainey Wilson’s prominent placement signals the academy’s confidence in her trajectory.
Las Vegas will host what promises to be a historic evening of performances and unexpected collaborations. Tickets are available through AXS.com, with ACM Awards Week events running May 15-16 at premium Las Vegas venues including Topgolf Vegas and Mandalay Bay Beach.
What Does This Mean for Lainey Wilson’s Career Momentum?
Lainey Wilson’s rise has been extraordinary, combining music success with major acting roles on Yellowstone and upcoming film projects. The world premiere of ‘Can’t Sit Still’ at the ACM Awards represents validation from the industry’s most prestigious country music organization. Her 16 awards in four years demonstrate sustained excellence.
With Prime Video’s global platform reaching 240+ countries and territories, Lainey Wilson will command an international audience for her performance. This May 17 telecast could become a career-defining moment for the Texas native, marking her as one of country music’s dominant forces heading into the second half of 2026.
Sources
- Academy of Country Music – Official announcement of performers for 61st ACM Awards ceremony
- Billboard – Coverage of Lainey Wilson and co-performers selected for Las Vegas event
- People Magazine – Lainey Wilson confirmed among first round of announced performers
