From Best to Oops Moments: Highlights of the 2025 ACM Awards (Photo: Jessie Murph arrives at the 60th annual Academy of Country Music Awards on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in Frisco, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
The 2025 ACM Awards, held in Frisco, Texas, marked the 60th anniversary of the event. The show brought together country music stars of all generations to celebrate the genre’s rich history. Hosted by Reba McEntire, the night was filled with memorable performances, surprise moments, and lots of fun. Celebrities like Kelsea Ballerini, Nicole Kidman, and Keith Urban added their personal touch to the evening, and the atmosphere was full of sparkle and energy.
Instead of bringing a human date, country singer Jessie Murph arrived with a miniature pig named Wilbur. Jessie has always wanted a pig, so she thought the ACM Awards in Texas would be the perfect opportunity to bring one along. She even matched her outfit with Wilbur’s casual, natural look. The unlikely duo quickly became a fan favorite, with Jessie sharing the fun story behind their appearance at the event.
Cody Johnson and his wife, Brandi, shared a touching moment on the red carpet by announcing that they’re expecting their third child. Brandi proudly displayed her baby bump, and the couple shared their excitement about the new addition to their family. Cody mentioned that the moment also served as their gender reveal. Their two daughters, Clara Mae and Cori, will soon have a baby brother. Cody admitted he didn’t care about the baby’s gender, but he was thrilled when the reveal showed it would be a boy.
The show opened with a powerful tribute to country music’s greatest hits. Reba McEntire kicked things off by performing Merle Haggard’s classic “Okie from Muskogee.” Clint Black followed with “Rhinestone Cowboy,” while Wynonna Judd took the audience back to the ‘80s with “Why Not Me.” LeAnn Rimes mesmerized everyone with her rendition of “Blue,” and Little Big Town performed “Girl Crush.” The night ended with Dan + Shay, who closed the tribute with their hit song “Tequila,” complete with a stunning high note from Shay Mooney.
Morgan Wallen, despite being nominated for six awards, decided to skip the 2025 ACM Awards. He has not attended any major awards shows since the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, and he also missed the Grammys and the CMAs. Fans were curious about his absence. Wallen later posted on Instagram, sharing a photo of himself playing golf with NFL star Tom Brady, explaining his whereabouts for the night.
In a lighthearted moment, co-host Bobby Bones met Jelly Roll in the crowd and asked him to autograph a jar of Smucker’s jelly. Jelly Roll admitted it was his first time signing such an item. Later, Bobby took the signed jar over to Nicole Kidman, who seemed to appreciate the quirky gift. Bobby even joked that Nicole still had the jar after the show. It was a funny and unexpected moment that added some humor to the night.
Lainey Wilson delivered one of the most exciting performances of the evening with her hit song “Whirlwind.” Blake Shelton introduced her with excitement, calling her “Lainey fricking Wilson.” Lainey gave it her all, performing in a bold black leather outfit and cowboy hat. The crowd couldn’t help but get on their feet and enjoy the energy she brought to the stage. It was clear that Lainey had the audience eating out of her hand, and her performance was one of the most memorable of the night.
Kelsea Ballerini’s performance of her song “Baggage” took things to the next level. She performed in front of a dramatic backdrop of gold suitcases, adding to the visual impact of the performance. Her outfit matched the metallic theme, with a sparkly jumpsuit that shone under the lights. Kelsea called this her “biggest performance” at an award show, and it certainly lived up to the hype. Her stage presence and impressive set made this moment one of the highlights of the evening.
Host Bobby Bones tried to get Brooks & Dunn to stand up and celebrate their win for Duo of the Year. However, neither Kix Brooks nor Ronnie Dunn got up from their seats. Bobby, not giving up, sat down next to them and continued the conversation. Kix jokingly admitted they didn’t expect to win, adding some humor to the moment. It was a lighthearted exchange that showcased the fun and relaxed atmosphere of the evening.
Nicole Kidman had a blast at the ACM Awards, and it was clear she was having fun. She was spotted dancing and enjoying the tributes to her husband, Keith Urban, as artists like Megan Moroney, Brothers Osborne, and Chris Stapleton honored him for his Triple Crown Award. Nicole danced to Keith’s hits like “Stupid Boy” and “Blue Ain’t Your Color.” The fun continued when Keith performed live, and Nicole seemed to be enjoying every minute of the celebration.
Despite being nominated for several awards over the years, Kelsea Ballerini went home empty-handed once again. She was up for Female Artist of the Year, Entertainer of the Year, and Music Event of the Year. However, she lost out to Lainey Wilson and Ella Langley. Kelsea, who has been nominated five times in a row, took it in stride. She shared her thoughts in an interview, saying that being nominated was an award in itself. For her, the opportunity to perform on such a big stage was the real prize, even if the trophies didn’t come her way.
The 2025 ACM Awards were filled with excitement, surprises, and unforgettable moments. From Jessie Murph’s pig to Kelsea Ballerini’s stunning stage display, the night had something for everyone. Fans will remember this milestone anniversary for its celebration of country music’s past, present, and future.
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