The 2025 ACM Awards were packed with unforgettable performances, red carpet surprises, and raw emotion — but some of the most buzzworthy moments didn’t make it to the broadcast. From Jelly Roll’s smoky backstage antics to what might have been Alan Jackson’s final performance, here’s a breakdown of what really went down in Las Vegas.
1. Jelly Roll Smokes a Joint Backstage — Then Brings Down the House
Before hitting the stage to perform “Heart of Stone” and a showstopping duet of “Amen” with Shaboozey, Jelly Roll tweeted:
“Back here smoking a joint with Ernest in case y’all don’t see us on TV. Yeah, it was that kind of night.”
Fans loved the unfiltered honesty — and his powerful performance. Later, he shared a heartfelt hug with Kimberly Schlapman of Little Big Town, a moment that caught fans off guard and sparked questions: Who knew these two were so close?
2. Lainey Wilson Makes History
For the second year in a row, Lainey Wilson took home Entertainer of the Year, proving she’s not just a rising star — she’s a powerhouse. Her speech was heartfelt, filled with gratitude and love for making people “laugh and smile.”
Jelly Roll summed it up best:
“She’ll go down as one of the greatest ever.”
3. Morgan Wallen — Missing Again
While the ACMs didn’t mention his absence, the reason became clear: Morgan Wallen went golfing with Tom Brady, as shown in an Instagram story. Some fans believe skipping major events may have cost him Entertainer of the Year. With artists like Cody Johnson, Jelly Roll, Lainey, and Kelsea Ballerini showing up and putting in the work, Wallen’s apathy could be hurting his long-term recognition.
4. Alan Jackson’s Emotional Farewell?
Alan Jackson’s performance of “When” left fans shaken. Clearly emotional and short of breath, Jackson leaned on a stand for support as he delivered what felt like a deeply personal and possibly final message to his fans.
He thanked his wife of four decades:
“She’s loved me through the good and the bad… I wouldn’t be here without her.”
At 66, with only one show listed on his website and no upcoming projects, this could have been his last public appearance. The moment recalled Toby Keith’s final performance months before his passing — raw, emotional, and unforgettable.
5. Reba, Miranda, and Lainey Share the Stage — and Their Group Chat
One of the most powerful collaborations of the night was Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, and Lainey Wilson performing “Trailblazer”, a song co-written with Brandy Clark. The three are close friends — close enough to have a “not safe for work” group text thread that fans would give anything to read.
6. Keith Urban & Nicole Kidman — A Love Story Still Going Strong
Keith Urban picked up a Triple Play Award and shared the sweetest moment with Nicole Kidman, who was clearly emotional during his tribute, which included Chris Stapleton’s rendition of “Blue Ain’t Your Color.” The couple’s red carpet snuggles and playful photobombing reminded fans why they’re country royalty.
7. Red Carpet Surprises: A Pig, A Pregnancy, and a Mystery Girlfriend
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Jessi Murph arrived with a pig as her red carpet date — and yes, it matched her outfit.
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Cody Johnson announced his wife Brandi is expecting their third child.
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And Rascal Flatts’ Joe Don Rooney debuted his new girlfriend — fans are still trying to identify her.
Closing Thoughts
From Lainey Wilson’s historic win to Jelly Roll’s unfiltered charm and Alan Jackson’s tearful performance, the 2025 ACM Awards delivered one of the most emotional and human award shows in recent memory.
Whether it was heartfelt speeches, raw tributes, or wild red carpet moments, this year reminded us that country music isn’t just about songs — it’s about stories.
What was your favorite ACM Awards moment? Drop a comment, and don’t forget to subscribe for more behind-the-scenes stories from the world of country music.