Olivia Dean claimed artist of the year and album of the year at the 2026 Brit Awards in Manchester. The ceremony featured performances by Harry Styles and the group Huntr/x, while host Jack Whitehall referenced a recent BAFTA broadcast mishap. Lola Young and Rosalia also secured wins during the event.
The 2026 Brit Awards took place on February 28 at Manchester's Co-op Live venue, celebrating the best in British music. Olivia Dean dominated the night, winning both artist of the year and album of the year awards. Lola Young and Rosalia also received honors, with Young and Dean leading nominations at five each.
Host Jack Whitehall opened the show with a light-hearted reference to a recent BAFTA incident. During the BAFTAs the previous week, Tourette's campaigner John Davidson, subject of the biopic 'I Swear,' involuntarily shouted a racial slur from the audience while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented an award. Despite a two-hour broadcast delay, the remark aired on BBC, prompting an apology from the broadcaster. A BBC spokesperson stated, “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the BAFTA Film Awards. This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome, and as explained during the ceremony it was not intentional. We apologise that this was not edited out prior to broadcast and it will now be removed from the version on BBC iPlayer.” Davidson responded, “I am, and always have been deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” adding that he supports the Tourette’s community and left the auditorium early due to distress caused.
Whitehall joked, “There may be some swearing, but don’t worry, we’ve got the best in the business on the bleep button. It’s the guy who did the BAFTAs. Nothing gets past him.”
Performances highlighted the evening, starting with Harry Styles. EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, performing as Huntr/x from Netflix's 'KPop Demon Hunters,' delivered 'Golden' outside the venue with fireworks. This marked the first K-pop performance at the Brits, where the group is nominated for best international group and international song. The trio stated, “We are beyond thrilled to be nominated for two BRIT Awards this year celebrating the music of ‘KPop Demon Hunters.' We can’t wait to bring a special performance to Manchester. See you soon U.K. fans!” Olivia Dean also performed. The performance was pre-recorded in front of fans.
