The 2018 CMA Awards delivered some surprising moments, but none more shocking than Keith Urban’s win for Entertainer of the Year. As his name was announced, Urban’s eyes widened in disbelief before he embraced his wife, Nicole Kidman, in a heartfelt hug and made his way to the stage.
A Long-Awaited Victory
Though Urban is no stranger to the CMAs’ most prestigious category, this marked only his second win—his first was back in 2005. Overcome with emotion, he wiped away tears and dedicated the award to Kidman, their two children, and his late father.
“I’m shocked beyond shocked,” Urban said. “I have so many people to thank. I wish I had more time to do it right now … but above all, God, I thank you so much for the blessings of this.”
He added, “I wish my dad was alive to see this, but I know he’s watching over me tonight. I just feel very, very blessed.”
Urban’s win followed a monumental year, including the release of his ninth studio album, “Graffiti U,” and a highly successful tour, which featured a sold-out performance at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
Closing his emotional speech, Urban expressed gratitude to his fans, saying, “Thank you to all of you for coming out. God bless country music. God bless you all.”
