
Fans React as Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert Stun Lainey Wilson in Emotional Surprise
The three industry heavy-hitters got together for a promotional video ahead of the 2025 ACM Awards Thursday evening—but it took a turn one of them didn't see coming.
The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards took place on May 8, 2025, and it was a night to remember. The biggest stars within the country genre were receiving well-deserved recognition after another eventful year.

Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire, and Miranda Lambert perform onstage during the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards at The Star in Frisco on May 8, 2025, in Frisco, Texas. | Source: Getty Images
Lainey Wilson, a top nominee; Reba McEntire, the show's host; and Miranda Lambert, a performer, teamed up for a short clip ahead of the ceremony.
McEntire and Lambert began by introducing themselves before McEntire announced, "We are here to present the Artist-Songwriter of the year to our good friend, Lainey Wilson!"

Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, at rehearsals for the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards week held at the Ford Center at The Star on May 7, 2025, in Frisco, Texas. | Source: Getty Images
"Stop. Y'all better be lying! That means so much!" Wilson said. Cameras began flashing, and the singer let out a yell before embracing Lambert and McEntire in a group hug. She then received her trophy.
Fans reacted to the sweet moment on social media. "I WANNA BE IN THIS FRIENDSHIP GROUP," singer-songwriter Max Jackson wrote in the comment section. "What a moment! 😍 congrats Lainey!!" another viewer gushed.
"How cool is this! So happy for Lainey and so cool that Reba and Miranda got to share the news !!! 👏❤️" one commenter said. "Love this so much ❤️," another added.

Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert at rehearsals for the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards week held at the Ford Center at The Star on May 7, 2025, in Frisco, Texas. | Source: Getty IMages
Wilson also took home the awards for Album of the Year, Entertainer of the Year, and Female Artist of the Year. Later in the evening, she, McEntire, and Lambert shared the stage in a powerful performance of their new song, "Trailblazer."