A Wedding Commitment Over the Red Carpet
Country music sensation Megan Moroney had a compelling reason for missing the 2026 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards held in Las Vegas. While she was one of the most talked-about figures of the evening, the 28-year-old artist chose to prioritize a major life milestone for a close friend.
Taking to her Instagram Story on Sunday, May 17, Moroney shared her regrets about not attending while expressing her support for her peers.
“I’m so honored to be nominated tonight at the ACM Awards, and I’m rooting for all my friends from afar! I’m out of the country this week on maid of honor duty to get my bestie married.”
Rather than wearing a formal designer gown on the red carpet, the “Tennessee Orange” singer was seen in relaxed loungewear, preparing for the wedding of Natalie King, the inspiration behind Moroney's 2021 track “Wonder.” Following these festivities, the singer is expected to return to her professional duties, with a sold-out tour date scheduled for May 29 in Columbus.
A Virtual Appearance for a Noble Cause
Although Moroney was physically absent from the venue, she still played a role in the ceremony. Shania Twain introduced the singer via a pre-taped segment to highlight the efforts of ACM Lifting Lives in partnership with St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
During the broadcast, Moroney appeared on screen wearing a branded St. Jude Music Gives T-shirt. She took the opportunity to advocate for the medical facility, stating:
“I wish I could be there tonight. Let’s all band together to help St. Jude beat childhood cancer. Please get yours and twin with me.”She further lauded the hospital staff for their essential, life-saving contributions to pediatric healthcare.
Record-Breaking Nominations
Moroney’s absence was particularly notable given her standing at this year’s awards. She entered the night as the most-nominated artist, boasting nine total nods. Among her impressive list of nominations were the prestigious titles of Entertainer of the Year and Female Artist of the Year.
Prior to the event, the artist had been busy preparing for her upcoming tour, confirming on social media that rehearsals were finished and she was counting down the days until her opening night.