Shania Twain took the stage as host for the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards, but viewers were less than impressed.
On May 17, the ACM Awards kicked off in Las Vegas, and social media erupted with scathing critiques of Twain's performance. The country music icon, who boasts five Grammys and a legacy that has shaped the genre, struggled to win over the audience as she stepped into the hosting role previously held by beloved figure Reba McEntire.
Fans didn’t hold back on X, with one user lamenting, "Yikes! Shania Twain is such a dry, almost boring host. I feel bad for her. Great musician though." Another chimed in with, "Shania is cringe on this show. I’m sorry, she just is." A third echoed the sentiment, stating, "Goodness gracious, Shania Twain is NOT good at this." This criticism comes on the heels of recent concerns about her health after unsettling photos surfaced online.
As the night progressed, the backlash continued. One user declared, "I’ve never written a post, only reposted and want my very first one in a decade of having this account to be that Shania Twain is a GOD AWFUL host." Another quipped, "Shania enjoy hosting tonight…you probably won’t be asked back." The barbs kept coming, with one viewer bluntly asking, "Shania Twain is drunk. And looks ridiculous. Is she hosting because @PrimeVideo couldn’t afford a big name?"
Despite the harsh critiques of her hosting abilities, Shania dazzled in a series of stunning outfits throughout the evening. From a golden off-the-shoulder gown to a nude mesh floral-covered dress and a sheer chocolate brown ensemble, she showcased her fashion prowess even as her hosting skills fell flat.
Fans did take to social media to praise her looks. One admirer wrote, "God, Shania seriously so damn gorgeous!! These outfits are beautiful and classy!" Another added, "Also Shania looks absolutely fantastic!! Loving her dresses so far!" A third fan declared, "Shania is and will always be a baddieeee," while another exclaimed, "QUEEN SHANIA F-----G TWAIN!!! Breathtaking beauty."
This hosting gig marked Shania's first major televised role in this capacity; her only other live event was the People's Choice Country Awards in September 2024. That ceremony took place at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville and was broadcast on NBC and Peacock.
As fans continue to dissect her performance, it’s clear that while Shania may have wowed with her wardrobe choices, her hosting left much to be desired. The question remains: will she get another shot at the mic?
