Olivia Dean Crowned Queen of the Brit Awards 2026 with Historic Four Wins
In a spectacular night at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, Olivia Dean emerged as the undisputed star of the 2026 Brit Awards, securing an impressive four awards. The ceremony, hosted by Jack Whitehall, marked the first time the Brits were held in Manchester, drawing a star-studded audience including Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy.
Dominant Performance and Recognition Across Categories
Olivia Dean, a 26-year-old graduate of the Brit School, claimed the coveted album of the year award, along with artist of the year, best pop act, and song of the year. This remarkable achievement follows her historic feat last year, when she became the first British solo female artist since Adele to simultaneously top the UK Official Singles and Albums Chart. Dean also delivered a live performance of her hit song Man I Need, captivating the audience.
Despite not winning the publicly voted song of the year category for Man I Need, Dean featured on Sam Fender's winning track Rein Me In, ensuring she received accolades in all four categories she was nominated for. Fender himself had a successful night, winning best alternative/rock act for the second consecutive year and the song of the year award, building on his Mercury Prize victory from the previous year.
Breakthrough Artists and International Highlights
Lola Young, another Brit School alumna, was named breakthrough artist, using her acceptance speech to praise music as a safe haven in what she described as a horrifyingly bleak world. The international categories saw significant moments, with Rose making history as the first K-pop winner at the Brits, taking international song of the year for APT with Bruno Mars. Spanish singer-songwriter Rosalia won international artist of the year, urging celebration of diverse music and cultures.
Brooklyn band Geese won best international group, using their platform to express anti-ICE sentiments and show support for Palestine, while also paying tribute to the late Stone Roses bassist Gary Mounfield. Rock band Wolf Alice claimed group of the year for the second time, highlighting the importance of supporting small music venues and Britain's musical contributions.
Special Honors and Tributes
The late Ozzy Osbourne was honored with a lifetime achievement award, accepted by his wife Sharon and daughter Kelly Osbourne to a standing ovation. Sharon fondly remembered Ozzy as a true artist and the most humble egomaniac. A tribute performance of No More Tears, led by Robbie Williams and featuring Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo, closed the emotional show.
Other notable awards included songwriter of the year for Noel Gallagher and producer of the year for Pink Pantheress, who became the youngest and first woman to win that category. Mark Ronson received the outstanding contribution to music award, paying homage to Amy Winehouse in his speech and performance.
Star-Studded Performances and Debuts
The ceremony was filled with dynamic performances, opening with Harry Styles making his live TV debut of songs from his forthcoming album Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, accompanied by a gospel choir and dancers. Additional acts included Wolf Alice, Alex Warren, Mark Ronson with a surprise appearance from Dua Lipa, Rosalia with Bjork, and KPop Demon Hunters stars Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami.
Scottish singer-songwriter Jacob Alon won the Brits critics' choice award, receiving a shout-out on stage from former winner Myles Smith. The event underscored the vibrant diversity and talent in the music industry, celebrating achievements across genres and generations.
