Lainey Wilson Set to Host the 60th Annual CMA Awards for Third Consecutive Year
By Website Content Manager
The country star will return for her third consecutive year as host when the milestone ceremony airs live on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026, on ABC and Disney+, with the broadcast available to stream on Hulu the following day.
The 34-year-old country music star will once again take on hosting duties for the 60th Annual Country Music Association Awards, marking her third consecutive year in the role. It will also be her second straight year hosting the ceremony on her own.
The milestone event is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 18, and will take place live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
The announcement was made Saturday, Sept. 5, during ESPN’s College GameDay, which was broadcasting from Louisiana State University in Wilson’s home state as the popular sports program celebrated its 500th road show.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be hosting the CMA Awards again this year, especially with it being the 60th anniversary,” Wilson said. “I’ve had so much fun hosting the last two years, and this one’s going to be extra special. Can’t wait to see y’all in November!”
The 12-time CMA Award winner first hosted the ceremony in 2024, when she shared the stage with Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning. She returned the following year for her first solo stint as host.
Ahead of the 2025 ceremony, Wilson sought advice from Reba McEntire, a five-time CMA Awards host, as she prepared to take on the show by herself. Wilson said she asked McEntire for just “one piece of advice,” expecting the veteran performer to tell her to relax, be herself and enjoy the experience.
Instead, McEntire surprised her by sending over an entire list of recommendations.
“She sent me a list,” Wilson recalled with a laugh during a press conference before the 2025 ceremony.
At the time, Wilson also reflected on how meaningful the hosting opportunity was for her. Having grown up watching the CMA Awards and treating the event with the same excitement many fans reserve for the Super Bowl, she described returning for another year as a tremendous honor.
Wilson also expressed gratitude to the CMA for trusting her to represent the genre that has played such an important role in her life and career.
The 60th annual ceremony will air live from Nashville on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026.