The spotlight was unmissably on Olivia Dean at the 2026 BRIT Awards, where she proved that her reign over the music industry is just getting started. This year, the highly anticipated event was hosted at Manchester’s fresh Co-op Live Arena, with the ever-charming comedian Jack Whitehall taking on hosting duties for the sixth time. The night was packed with electrifying performances, but none were more eagerly awaited than Harry Styles' debut of his single "Aperture" from his soon-to-drop album Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.
It was a night teeming with victories for the Grammy-winning Dean, who took home several prestigious awards. Her collection now includes Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Pop Act, and Song of the Year for "Rein Me In," her chart-topping collaboration with Sam Fender. Dean's meteoric rise has been fueled by the immense success of her album The Art of Loving, featuring fan favorites like "Man I Need" and "Nice to Each Other."
“Making this album has changed my life," Dean emotionally shared with her fans at the Co-op Live while clutching her BRIT Award for Album of the Year. "This album is about love and loving each other in a world that feels loveless right now.”
Bruno Mars and Rosé took the stage to celebrate their win for International Song of the Year with "APT," further electrifying the night. Meanwhile, British rockers Wolf Alice were crowned Group of the Year, and Rosalia was honored as International Artist of the Year to the roaring approval of her fans. Her shoutout to Liam Gallagher, delivered with comedic flair from Whitehall, added a light-hearted touch to the evening.
The night also paid homage to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, who was posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement BRIT, leaving a touching silence in the arena.
The 2026 BRIT Awards were not short of incredible talent. Lola Young emerged as the Breakthrough Artist of the Year, marking her entry into the elite circle of Brit Awards winners. In the Dance Act category, Fred Again, alongside PlaqueBoyMax and Skepta, took the trophy home. Dave's lyrical prowess earned him the Hip-hop/Grime Act award, further solidifying his status as one of the genre's leading voices.
Here's a glimpse at some of the night's top winners:
- Song of the Year: "Rein Me In," Sam Fender ft. Olivia Dean
- Group of the Year: Wolf Alice
- Breakthrough Artist: Lola Young
- International Song: "APT," Bruno Mars and Rosé
- Artist of the Year: Olivia Dean
- Album of the Year: The Art of Loving by Olivia Dean
It was a night that celebrated both established icons and rising stars, ensuring the 2026 BRIT Awards will be remembered for its dazzling fusion of talent.