Manchester hosted the BRIT Awards 2026 for the first time since 1977 at Co-op Live arena on February 28, infusing the night with northern energy and star power. Hosted by Jack Whitehall, the event celebrated British music icons amid explosive performances and historic wins, blending pop spectacle with local flair. Olivia Dean dominated, sweeping four awards including Artist of the Year and Best Pop Act, cementing her rise after Grammy success.[youtube][themanc]
Harry Styles electrified the crowd with his BRITs return, debuting new single “Aperture” from his upcoming album, while RAYE delivered a medley of “Where Is My Husband” and “Nightingale Lane.” ROSALÍA claimed International Artist of the Year with a rave-like church performance, and Sam Fender took Alternative/Rock Act. Wolf Alice won Group of the Year, presented by Happy Mondays’ Shaun Ryder and Bez, channeling Mancunian roots with “The Sofa.”bbc+1[youtube]
Offstage, Warner Music’s “24-Hour Party Poodles” afterparty at Cut & Craft stole the show, themed around Manchester’s club legacy like 24 Hour Party People. A five-meter pink poodle installation, poodle-print carpets, inflatables, and lasers created surreal vibes, attended by Dua Lipa, James Blunt, and stars arriving via British Pullman train. This eccentric takeover symbolized Manc pride, exporting acid house heritage globally.instagram+2
Tributes added depth: Ozzy Osbourne received Lifetime Achievement via Sharon and Kelly Osbourne, with Dolly Parton intro; Mark Ronson honored Amy Winehouse in his set. Lola Young nabbed Breakthrough Artist, ROSÉ & Bruno Mars won International Song for “APT.” Manchester’s takeover proved the city’s cultural dominance, leaving London in the dust.themanc+1[youtube]
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