Country Royalty Unite: Blake Shelton and Reba McEntire Ignite the 46th ACMs as Kelly

Get ready for another memorable night at the Academy of Country Music Awards, because Blake Shelton is returning to the spotlight alongside country icon Reba McEntire as co-host of this year’s show.

The 47th annual ACM Awards will take place Sunday, April 1, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, bringing back the winning chemistry between Shelton and McEntire that audiences loved last year. Shelton’s relaxed humor and natural charm proved to be the perfect counterbalance to Reba’s seasoned poise, making their first pairing a standout success.

In addition to the main ceremony, the ACM Fan Jam will return for a second year. This time, Zac Brown Band will headline and host the parallel event at the Mandalay Events Center. Known for their high-energy live performances, the band is expected to bring their signature excitement to the fan-focused celebration, with special guest appearances to be announced.

The Academy will also honor music legend Lionel Richie with its annual television special, ACM Presents: Lionel Richie and Friends – A Lifetime of Hits. The tribute will be taped the day after the awards and later aired on CBS. Richie will be joined onstage by an impressive lineup of artists, including Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Lady Antebellum, Kenny Rogers, Rascal Flatts, The Band Perry, Martina McBride, and more.

The tribute marks Richie’s first appearance at the ACM Awards and continues country music’s long-standing admiration for the superstar. Richie is currently preparing to release Tuskegee, a country duets album slated for spring, and many of today’s top country artists credit him as a major influence.

“Being a part of the ACMs is an honor,” Richie said in a statement to the Associated Press. “I am excited to share such an amazing evening with some of my closest friends.”

Last year’s awards also hinted at Blake Shelton’s rising mainstream popularity. His effortless performance as Reba’s co-host preceded his breakout success as a coach on The Voice, a role that soon elevated him to a new level of stardom.

Previously, Sugarland hosted the inaugural Fan Jam event and after-party at Mandalay Bay, which featured live remotes during the broadcast—including a surprise duet between Jennifer Nettles and Rihanna. With Zac Brown Band taking the reins this year, expectations are high for another unforgettable fan experience.