Chris Stapleton dedicates ACM Male Artist of the Year win to late friend Ben Vaughn

Country star Chris Stapleton won Male Artist of the Year at the 2025 ACM Awards on May 8 in Frisco, Texas. He dedicated his emotional acceptance speech to his late friend and music publisher Ben Vaughn, who died earlier this year at age 49.

“Wow, so many guys in this category that are so deserving and great artists,” said Stapleton, 47. “I gotta thank everybody who works so hard to make these things possible… my wife Morgane, my kids at home.” He continued, “I’m thinking a lot about my friend Ben Vaughn who we lost this year, so I’m gonna send this one out to Ben.”

Hosted by Reba McEntire, the 60th ACM Awards saw Stapleton beating out fellow nominees Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Jelly Roll, and Cody Johnson for the prestigious award. All five men were also contenders for Entertainer of the Year.

Stapleton has now claimed the Male Artist of the Year title five times — previously in 2016, 2018, 2022, and 2024 — and has been nominated for the honor ten consecutive years. In 2025, he also received nominations for Single of the Year (“White Horse”), Music Event of the Year (with Carly Pearce), and Visual Media of the Year.

Stapleton’s heartfelt tribute added a poignant moment to a night celebrating the best in country music.