2026 K-LOVE Fan Awards Winners Announced: Brandon Lake, CeCe Winans, MercyMe and More

The winners of the 2026 K-LOVE Fan Awards have been announced, honoring some of the most influential artists, songs, films, books, podcasts, and personalities in Christian entertainment. The annual fan-voted event once again highlighted the voices and projects that have made a significant impact on audiences over the past year.

One of the night's biggest winners was Brandon Lake, who captured both Artist of the Year and Male Artist of the Year honors. Lake's continued success reflects a remarkable season in his career, marked by chart-topping music, sold-out performances, and songs that have resonated deeply with worshippers around the world.

Veteran Christian group MercyMe was named Group of the Year, adding another accolade to a career that has spanned more than three decades. The band's enduring popularity and consistent ability to connect with listeners through faith-filled music helped secure the fan-voted victory.

Gospel powerhouse CeCe Winans received the award for Female Artist of the Year, continuing a remarkable run that has seen her remain one of the most celebrated and respected figures in Christian music. Winans has enjoyed widespread acclaim in recent years through her worship recordings, live performances, and ministry influence.

In the song categories, Jamie MacDonald's breakthrough hit "Left It In The River" was crowned Song of the Year. The powerful anthem has connected with listeners through its message of surrender, freedom, and transformation, becoming one of the most talked-about songs in Christian radio over the past year.

Phil Wickham's "Homesick for Heaven" earned Worship Song of the Year, recognizing a song that has resonated with congregations and individual worshippers alike through its focus on eternity and the believer's longing for God's presence.

Emerging artist Emerson Day was honored with Breakout Single for her song "Get Behind Me," marking a significant milestone for one of Christian music's fastest-rising new voices. The award recognizes artists who have made a notable impact through a standout release and signals Day's growing influence within the genre.

The awards also extended beyond music to celebrate achievement and impact across a variety of platforms.

RobertAnthony Cruz received the Sports Impact Award, recognizing his influence and witness through athletics. The award highlights individuals in the sports world whose lives and platforms inspire others through faith, character, and service.

In publishing, Anne Wilson's book Hey Girl won Book Impact, reflecting the strong response from readers who have embraced the artist's message of encouragement, identity, and faith.

The highly anticipated sequel I Can Only Imagine 2 was named Film Impact, underscoring the continued popularity of faith-based cinema and the enduring legacy of the original film, which became one of the most successful Christian movies of all time.

Meanwhile, Sadie Robertson Huff's popular podcast "WHOA That's Good" earned Podcast Impact, recognizing the platform's ongoing influence among listeners seeking conversations centered on faith, culture, relationships, and spiritual growth.

In the television and streaming category, House of David - Season 2 received the TV/Streaming Impact Award. The biblical drama has continued to attract viewers through its retelling of the life of David and its exploration of faith, leadership, and God's purposes in history.

The K-LOVE Fan Awards remain unique within Christian entertainment because winners are chosen by fans, reflecting the artists, creators, and projects that have most deeply connected with audiences throughout the year. From worship leaders and recording artists to filmmakers, authors, athletes, and podcasters, the 2026 winners represent a diverse group of individuals using their platforms to inspire faith and encourage believers around the world.

The complete list of winners showcases the breadth of Christian entertainment today, highlighting both established names and emerging voices that continue to shape the faith-based landscape.