For years, Lainey Wilson, the spirited country singer who is hosting the 2025 Country Music Awards tonight, skillfully concealed the chapters of her private life. The singer didn't go public with her relationship until the 2023 Academy of Country Music Awards.
At the award show, she walked the red carpet alongside Devlin 'Duck' Hodges, confirming their romantic relationship to the world. What had been mere fan conjecture about Lainey's love life was confirmed in a moment that will be etched in the hearts of her admirers forever.
Two years later, the singer, 32, and the former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Devlin, 29, are engaged. Lainey announced the big news to her 3.5 million Instagram followers, writing: "4x4xU forever" with a heart emoji.
© Theo WargoWhile the charismatic couple had been kindling their relationship for over two years before they went public and four years before they got engaged, Lainey and Devlin enjoy basking in the attention of their love. Fans and friends flooded their collab Instagram post with well wishes. Fellow country singer, Jason Aldean, wrote: "FINALLY!!! Congrats guys!!"
Actor Taylor Lautner commented: "OKAYYYYYYY massive congratulations Lainey." And Grammy winner Miranda Lambert added: "Yessssssssssssssssss."
© Axelle/Bauer-GriffinBefore they went public with their relationship, Lainey told The Bobby Bones Show: "[Devlin's] been around for a while... I just decided to make him wait for two and a half years." In describing her 29-year-old partner, she lauded him as a "good dude" who understands the journey of pursuing dreams, having tread that path himself.
Lainey further illuminated his supportive nature, stating: "He knows what it’s like chasing a dream because he's done that for himself... But I'll tell you, he is good as gold. Supports me, would never come in between anything that I'm trying to do. He's like, 'Go get it, girl.' And I made him wait for a while. I mean… it's been a little over two years now."
© Rob KimThe journey to this heartwarming connection had its own share of transformative moments. Reflecting on a pivotal decision she made in 2021, Lainey recounted how she had parted ways with her high-school sweetheart to embrace her burgeoning music career. "He was the only thing I had ever known," she shared with People, highlighting the profound connection they shared.
Her bond with her ex-boyfriend had weathered various life phases, making the decision to end their relationship even more challenging. Yet, Lainey realized that her pursuit of her dreams in Nashville demanded her to shed the comfort of familiarity and embark on a path of growth and exploration
© Getty ImagesAfter Lainey broke up with her high school sweetheart, she started dating Devlin. The singer opened up to People about their first date: "We went to this old place called Silverados, and it had free beer and wine from 5 to 10 p.m.. I was like, 'This boy likes to ball on a budget too. This is gonna work out.'"
