Megan Moroney skips ACM awards 2026 for maid of honor wedding duties

Megan Moroney has addressed her absence from the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards, explaining that she missed the ceremony for a personal commitment abroad.

The 28-year-old country star took to her Instagram Story during the awards night on Sunday, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, to share that she was unable to attend due to maid of honor duties.

“I’m so honored to be nominated tonight at ACMAwards & I’m rooting on all my friends from afar!” she wrote, before revealing, “I’m out of the country this week on MOH [maid of honor] duty to get my bestie married Inatalieking.”

She added that she was looking forward to returning to her tour schedule, writing, “I love you guys & can’t wait to see y’all in Columbus! Counting down the days.”

During the live broadcast, host Shania Twain acknowledged Moroney’s absence while introducing a pre-recorded message from the singer as part of the ACM Lifting Lives segment, which highlights charitable initiatives supported by the Academy.

“Megan Moroney, one of country music’s newest superstars, couldn’t be here tonight but for a really beautiful reason,” Twain said. “She’s busy being the bridesmaid of honor at her best friend’s wedding.”

In her recorded message, Moroney appeared wearing a St. Jude “Music Gives” T-shirt and used the moment to highlight the charity’s mission.

“I wish I could be there tonight,” she said, before praising the work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospita