Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival, a cornerstone event in the global music calendar, is navigating a significant lineup adjustment. In a surprising turn of events, acclaimed Las Vegas rock band The Killers have been announced as the new headliners for the Sunday slots, replacing the previously scheduled Doja Cat. This change comes as Doja Cat prioritizes the final stages of her highly anticipated fifth studio album, titled “Vie,” which is set for release on September 26, 2025. The news has created a buzz across the music community, marking a notable shift in the festival’s sonic landscape.
Doja Cat’s Strategic Pause for “Vie”
Doja Cat, known for her genre-bending artistry and chart-topping hits, made the difficult decision to withdraw from her ACL commitments to fully dedicate her attention to her forthcoming album, “Vie.” In a candid statement shared with her followers, the artist explained the conflict: “Unfortunately, I will not be performing at Austin City Limits this year,” she posted. “When I made the commitment I didn’t know exactly when Vie would be released. I’ve been working on finalizing the album, making videos, taking the time to put together an album campaign that I am really excited about, and it’s become clear to me that I cannot give you guys the show you deserve within this time frame.” This strategic move underscores Doja Cat’s commitment to delivering a polished and impactful album campaign, with “Vie” reportedly embracing an ’80s-inspired pop sound with themes of love, romance, and sex. Her focus on these crucial releases means a temporary pause on major festival performances to ensure the project’s success.
The Killers Bring Iconic Rock Energy to ACL
Taking over the prime Sunday slots, The Killers are set to ignite the ACL stages with their signature blend of danceable rock anthems and captivating stage presence. Renowned for enduring hits like “Mr. Brightside,” “Somebody Told Me,” and “When You Were Young,” the band has cultivated a massive global following over two decades. Their previous appearances at ACL in 2004, 2007, and as headliners in 2017 have been met with overwhelming enthusiasm. The Killers’ inclusion represents a powerful injection of classic rock energy into the festival’s closing performances, promising a high-octane experience. While fans accustomed to Doja Cat’s unique pop-rap stylings may find the genre shift notable, the sheer legacy and live performance prowess of The Killers ensure they are more than capable of commanding the ACL audience and delivering a memorable festival experience. Their ability to create a “bombastically high-energy environment” is well-documented, making them a formidable draw.
ACL Festival 2025: A Diverse Musical Tapestry
The Austin City Limits Music Festival, held annually in the heart of Texas at Zilker Park, spans two weekends: October 3-5 and October 10-12, 2025. The festival is celebrated for its exceptionally diverse lineup, showcasing over 100 performances across nine stages, covering an expansive range of genres from hip-hop and EDM to country, folk, and rock. This year’s roster, even with the headliner change, remains robust. Alongside The Killers, other notable headliners and performers include Hozier, Luke Combs, Cage The Elephant, Empire Of The Sun, Sabrina Carpenter, and The Strokes. The news of this major lineup change has quickly become a trending topic, illustrating the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of festival planning and the anticipation surrounding this year’s event. The festival continues to offer a rich tapestry of music, featuring emerging artist talents and established stars alike.
Doja Cat’s Next Chapter: ‘Vie’ and Global Tour
While ACL attendees will experience a different headliner, Doja Cat is gearing up for a significant period of new releases and global touring. Her fifth album, “Vie,” is poised to be a major event in the 2025 music landscape, offering an ’80s-inspired pop sound. The lead single, “Jealous Type,” released on August 21, 2025, has already garnered significant attention for its catchy, retro vibe. Following the album’s release, Doja Cat is scheduled to embark on her “Ma Vie” World Tour, commencing in November 2025 with dates across New Zealand, Australia, and Asia, highlighting her continued global impact.
A Reshaped, Yet Resilient, ACL Experience
The substitution of Doja Cat with The Killers at the Austin City Limits Music Festival exemplifies the fluid nature of live event scheduling. This significant lineup adjustment, while perhaps surprising to some, ensures that ACL 2025 will deliver powerful and unforgettable performances. The addition of The Killers, a band with a storied career and a reputation for electrifying live shows, provides a compelling draw, balancing the festival’s diverse offerings. As ACL prepares for its two-weekend run, the focus remains on celebrating an incredible array of musical talent, promising a vibrant and engaging experience for all attendees, showcasing the enduring appeal of live music and the excitement of discovering new releases and legendary acts alike.
