Special Awards

Paramount + Hit Television Series: “Landman”, will be honored with the ACM Film Award, inspired by Tex Ritter, which honors a television series, television movie, or feature film released within the past calendar year that prominently showcases Country Music.

Bill Anderson and Mike Curb will each be honored with the ACM Icon Award, inspired by Cliffie Stone, which honors a Country Music artist, duo/group, or industry leader whose multifaceted contributions across songwriting, recording, production, touring, film, television, literary works and philanthropic efforts have positively impacted the Country Music genre and community.

C2C: Country to Country will be honored with the ACM International Award, inspired by Jim Reeves. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, group or industry leader for outstanding efforts in expanding Country Music’s influence worldwide.

Leslie Fram will be honored with the ACM Lift Every Voice Award. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group, industry leader or affiliate/partner who plays a pivotal role in elevating underrepresented voices throughout the Country Music genre, transcending demographics and geography.

Eric Church will be honored with the ACM Lifting Lives Award, honoring the contributions of Gary Haber, known as a business manager and past president of ACM Lifting Lives. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group, or industry professional who is devoted to improving lives through the power of music, has a generosity of spirit, and is committed to serving others. It is voted on by the ACM Lifting Lives Board of Directors.

Brett James and The Carter Family will each be honored posthumously with the ACM Poet’s Award. This award recognizes a Country Music songwriter whose work has had an enduring impact on shaping the Country M­usic genre with exceptional lyrical and musical contributions.

Scott Zolke will be honored with the ACM Service Award, inspired by Mae Boren Axton. This award recognizes a Country Music artist, duo/group, or industry leader that has served the Academy of Country Music.

Kacey Musgraves will be honored with the ACM Spirit Award. Inspired by 20-time ACM Award recipient Merle Haggard, this award is presented to an honoree that exemplifies Merle’s dedication to Country Music and passion for storytelling through music and performance.