The emotional segment as part of ACM Lifting Lives was introduced by American Idol alum Lauren Alaina.
Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay perform at The 61st Academy of Country Music Awards held at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 17, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Rich Polk
The 2026 ACM Awards paused its evening of celebration for its ACM Lifting Lives segment in order to honor Ben Vaughn, the late president and CEO of Warner Chappell Nashville, who died at age 49 in January 2025, and share an important message.
As presenter Lauren Alaina, who was the runner-up in season 10 of American Idol, shared, Vaughn had been an important figure in her life as well as that of performers Dan + Shay. During the emotional introduction, Alaina at one point paused to collect herself after tearing up to remind viewers that anyone who is dealing with mental health issues should know that there are people willing to listen and help however they can, and to speak out if they’re in need of support.
