The highly anticipated moment arrived at the ACM Awards, leaving no room for disappointment. Trisha Yearwood, alongside her co-host husband Garth Brooks, took the stage to present the prestigious Entertainer of the Year Award. This accolade stands out among the categories, recognizing artists who excel not only in captivating audiences with their music but also in delivering exceptional showmanship and charisma on stage.
The ACM Entertainer of the Year award symbolizes the essence of a complete performer. It honors artists who consistently push boundaries, deliver unforgettable live performances, and leave an everlasting impression on their fans. This recognition acknowledges their ability to engage with audiences, create magical moments, and elevate the concert experience to unprecedented heights.
Winning the ACM Entertainer of the Year award is a testament to an artist’s talent, dedication, and impact on the country music industry. It signifies their ability to transcend genres, connect with diverse audiences, and leave a lasting legacy. This esteemed honor often marks a career-defining moment, propelling artists to new levels of success and opening doors to even greater opportunities.
Let’s take a look at the nominees for the 2023 Entertainer of the Year Award:
- Morgan Wallen
- Miranda Lambert
- Kane Brown
- Luke Combs
- Chris Stapleton
- Carrie Underwood
- Jason Aldean
Miranda Lambert held the title of Entertainer of the Year, while Carrie Underwood had previously won the award in 2009, 2010, and 2020. Jason Aldean secured the prestigious honor in 2016, 2017, and 2018. Luke Combs, Kane Brown, and Chris Stapleton have yet to claim the top prize at the ACMs, although Combs has previously won the Entertainer of the Year award at the CMA Awards twice.
And the winner is… Chris Stapleton!
To everyone’s surprise, including his own, Chris Stapleton emerged as the recipient of the Entertainer of the Year Award! His genuine shock and humility were palpable as he accepted the prestigious honor. Stapleton graciously thanked all those who supported him on his journey and dedicated the award to his five children, whom he shares with his wife Morgane, a talented singer who often joins him on stage.
In an emotionally charged moment, he expressed, “My kids sitting at home. They give up a lot of my time. A lot of my wife’s time. So we can do this. And this is for them,” his voice quivering with emotion.
Watch Chris Stapleton’s heartfelt acceptance speech below, capturing the essence of his remarkable achievement.