Tim McGraw Reveals Why He Couldn't Look at Faith Hill and Their Daughters During ACM Honors Speech (Exclusive)

Tim McGraw, the seasoned country music icon with over three decades in the industry, displayed his trademark humility and gratitude when speaking with ET's Cassie DiLaura backstage at the Academy of Country Music Honors in August. McGraw was being honored with the ACM Icon Award, but despite his numerous achievements, including numerous hits, 10 No. 1 country albums, and three GRAMMY Awards, he still felt somewhat unworthy of the recognition.

He candidly shared his feelings, saying, "On one hand, I feel like I've been doing it for a long time, but I feel like I got a lot more to go. So I hope this isn't, like, the pinnacle of my career, but I'm very appreciative." McGraw, who isn't one to seek out awards, expressed his deep appreciation for his fans, fellow artists, and the inspiration he draws from his peers. He emphasized his excitement about his upcoming album and his commitment to continually improving his craft.

During the awards ceremony, McGraw's wife of 27 years, Faith Hill, and two of their three daughters were in attendance to celebrate his Icon Award. However, McGraw humorously confessed that he couldn't bear to look in their direction while delivering his acceptance speech, as he tends to get emotional during speeches. He hoped he had managed to compose himself adequately.

With a chuckle, he acknowledged that despite the grandeur of the moment, his wife and daughters would likely tease him about it afterward, asserting, "They'll all give me a lot of ribbing for sure. With my wife and three daughters, I'm at the bottom of the talent totem pole. I'm probably the least skilled singer in our family."

The ACM Honors also saw the presence of McGraw's friends and collaborators, including Brett Young and Nelly, with whom he unexpectedly achieved crossover success in 2004 with their hit "Over and Over." Expressing his fondness for Nelly, McGraw expressed a desire to collaborate with him again, noting that they were pioneers in that kind of collaboration nearly 20 years ago, culminating in a hip-hop number one hit.

The 16th annual Academy of Country Music Honors is scheduled to air on Fox on Monday, September 18, at 10 p.m. PT/ET.