Riley Green may have arrived solo at the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards, but that did not stop him from stealing attention with a hilarious and surprisingly heartfelt confession about host Shania Twain.
Fresh off a huge night that included a win for Musical Event of the Year alongside Ella Langley, Green joked that there was only one reason he came to the ACMs without a date.
“No, no. Well, Shania Twain’s here… so I’m not bringing a date.”
The playful comment immediately caught fans’ attention and added another memorable moment to Green’s already eventful night.
Riley Green Had His Eyes on One Country Icon
During an interview on the ACM Awards red carpet, Green was asked why he attended the ceremony alone.
Rather than giving a routine answer, he pointed straight to Shania Twain.
The remark was clearly made in fun, but Green quickly shifted into sincere admiration for the woman he considers one of country music’s most legendary figures.
“She’s Up There With Dolly and Reba”
Green praised Twain for reaching a level of fame that few country artists ever achieve.
He noted that she belongs in the same rare category as Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire—artists whose influence extends far beyond country music.
According to Green, Twain became a true larger-than-life cultural icon, and he was thrilled to see her hosting one of the genre’s biggest nights.
Shania Said His Name — And He “About Fell Out”
Green also admitted that hearing Twain say his name during rehearsals nearly left him speechless.
“She said my name earlier in rehearsals and I about fell out,” he said with a laugh.
For a performer who has quickly become one of country music’s biggest stars, the reaction showed that even successful artists can still be starstruck.
A Big Night for Riley Green
Green had plenty to celebrate at the 2026 ACM Awards.
In addition to winning Musical Event of the Year for “Don’t Mind If I Do” with Ella Langley, he performed his current single “Change My Mind” and earned nominations for Male Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Artist-Songwriter of the Year.
His relaxed humor and genuine admiration for Shania Twain only made fans love him more.
Fans Loved Seeing His Starstruck Side
Riley Green may be one of country music’s hottest names, but his comments about Shania Twain revealed a relatable side that resonated with fans.
Sometimes even the biggest stars become speechless when they meet the artists who inspired them.
And based on Green’s reaction, Shania Twain still has that effect on just about everyone.
