Megan Moroney had a very good reason why she couldn’t attend the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas.
“I’m so honored to be nominated tonight at @ACMAwards & I’m rooting on all my friends from afar!” Moroney, 28, wrote via her Instagram Story on Sunday, May 17. “I’m out of the country this week on MOH [maid of honor] duty to get my bestie married @Inatalieking.”
Instead of showcasing a designer gown perfect for a red carpet, the country singer posed in a comfy two-piece loungewear set as she prepared to get Natalie King — the subject of her 2021 song “Wonder” — married.
“I love you guys & can’t wait to see y’all in Columbus!” she said when referring to her sold-out tour date on May 29. “Counting down the days.”
During the 2026 ACM Awards later on Sunday, host Shania Twain acknowledged that Moroney was not present inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas for the star-studded event.
At the same time, Twain, 60, was thrilled to welcome the “Tennessee Orange” singer to the show virtually with a pretaped message.
“Country music has the power to bring people together, to help people improve and heal lives, so it’s only right that ACM Lifting Lives supports great causes like St. Jude Children’s Hospital,” Twain shared. “Megan Maroney, one of country music’s newest superstars, couldn’t be here tonight but for a really beautiful reason. She’s busy being the bridesmaid of honor at her best friend’s wedding. However, Megan still sent us this very special message on this very important cause.”
Soon after, Moroney appeared wearing a St. Jude Music Gives T-shirt and asked fans and viewers alike to show support.
“I wish I could be there tonight,” she said before praising St. Jude Children’s Hospital staff members for providing “life-changing and life-saving work.”
“Let’s all band together to help St. Jude beat childhood cancer,” she said while showcasing her T-shirt, available online. “Please get yours and twin with me.”
During Sunday’s awards show, Moroney led the pack of nominees with nine nods, including Entertainer of the Year and Female Artist of the Year.
She will continue celebrating her success on The Cloud 9 Tour, which kicks off May 29.
“Rehearsals are complete✅,” she wrote via Instagram on May 12. “17 days until opening night! which means u have 17 days to learn a new song! swipe for a surprise ;).”
The 2026 ACM Awards are streaming Prime Video.
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