Jack Whitehall Announced as Host for Historic 2026 Brit Awards in Manchester
Comedian Jack Whitehall has been confirmed as the presenter for the upcoming 2026 Brit Awards, bringing his signature humor to the prestigious music ceremony. This year's event holds special significance as it marks the first time in five decades that the Brits will be held outside London, taking place at the Co-op Live venue in Manchester on February 28, 2026.
A Full Circle Moment for the Veteran Host
Whitehall, 37, is no stranger to the Brit Awards stage, having hosted the London-based ceremony for five non-consecutive years. However, this Manchester edition represents a particularly meaningful homecoming for the comedian. "I am so excited to be coming back for this very special Brit Awards in Manchester, a place that is so important to me," Whitehall expressed. "The city I started my comedy career in, it feels like a real full circle moment returning to host this historic night at the Co-op Live."
The venue holds personal significance for Whitehall, who noted it's "only a stone's throw away from the comedy club I did my first 10-minute set in all those years ago." Born in London but educated at the University of Manchester, Whitehall transitioned from student life to comedy stardom, appearing in popular shows like Bad Education and Fresh Meat, often collaborating with his father, Michael Whitehall.
Notable Nominations and Musical Highlights
The 2026 Brit Awards feature several noteworthy nominations. Olivia Dean and Lola Young lead with five nominations each, while iconic band Pulp has secured their first nomination in thirty years in the best group category. Lily Allen, whose album West End Girl generated significant buzz upon its release last year, has earned nominations in three categories: best album, artist of the year, and pop act.
Whitehall's Personal Life and Relationship with Roxy Horner
Beyond his professional achievements, Whitehall's personal life has become increasingly public, particularly his relationship with model Roxy Horner. The couple went public with their romance at the start of the UK lockdown in 2020 when Horner moved into Whitehall's London home. "Weirdly that was quite nice because we spent a lot of time together and it accelerates the relationship in a way," Whitehall reflected on their accelerated cohabitation.
Horner, an Essex-born model who made her Vogue debut at just 17, has built an impressive career working with brands like Boohoo, Quiz, Boux Avenue, Victoria's Secret, Max Factor, and Pandora. Before dating Whitehall, she was in a two-year relationship with singer Jake Bugg and was once linked to Leonardo DiCaprio. In 2021, Horner was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes after being hospitalized, describing Whitehall as her "rock" through the challenging diagnosis.
Growing Family and Recent Engagement
The couple welcomed their first child, daughter Elsie, in September 2023, with Whitehall sharing his joy on social media: "Utterly overwhelming and joyous in ways I couldn't have even imagined. In awe of my partner @roxyhorner who has been amazing throughout this journey." He humorously added, "I also wore sketchers to hospital, I think I must accept I am a full-blown dad now."
In December 2024, the couple announced their engagement, sharing joyful photos from the proposal moment. A source revealed they were entering Christmas as "an engaged couple" who "could not be happier together and are looking forward to planning their wedding." While specific wedding details remain private, Horner sparked speculation about an imminent ceremony by sharing a video montage of herself trying on wedding dresses in November 2025, captioned "Come wedding dress shopping with me."
Anticipated Wedding and Family Dynamics
Whitehall has expressed excitement about the upcoming wedding, noting it will be "the first time our families are ever coming together." He humorously contrasted their backgrounds: "My family, and it will come as no surprise to you, are a bunch of gilet wearing chinless toffs and her family are proper cockney, all West Ham fans, proper salt of the earth."
How to Watch the 2026 Brit Awards
The 2026 Brit Awards ceremony will be broadcast live on ITV from 8:15 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from the Co-op Live venue in Manchester. This historic relocation from London promises to deliver memorable moments as Whitehall returns to his comedy roots while celebrating the best of British music.
