The Brit Awards 2026 as it happened: Noel thanks Liam, Olivia Dean cleans up, and tributes to Ozzy
The Brit Awards 2026 in Manchester: Olivia Dean Shines, Ozzy Honored
The 2026 Brit Awards marked a historic shift as the ceremony moved to Manchester for the first time, showcasing a vibrant celebration of UK music. Olivia Dean emerged as the standout artist, securing four major awards, including Best Artist and Best Album for her sophomore release, The Art Of Loving. Lola Young and Sam Fender also claimed significant honors, while Wolf Alice and international acts like Geese and Rosalia added to the night’s prestige.
Notable Moments and Performances
The event featured standout performances from Rosalia, Harry Styles, Raye, and Mark Ronson, alongside Dean’s electrifying stage presence. A heartfelt tribute to Ozzy Osbourne capped the night, with Robbie Williams delivering a memorable rendition of No More Tears in collaboration with musicians from Ozzy’s long career.
Ozzy’s Lifetime Achievement Tribute
The Lifetime Achievement Award honored the late heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, whose legacy was celebrated through a montage of his iconic career. Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife, accepted the award on his behalf, while her daughter Kelly added personal gratitude to the moment.
“What a f****** great evening it’s been,” Sharon said as she addressed the crowd. “Everyone’s a winner.”
Sharon reflected on Ozzy’s life, calling him “a showman to the very end” and noting his “humble egomaniac” persona. She humorously recalled his aversion to speeches, yet praised his authenticity and enduring influence.
“Ozzy was authentic, totally unpredictable, a wild man… a true artist,” Sharon added.
The ceremony concluded with Dean’s emotional acceptance of the Best Album award, as she exclaimed, “Making this album has changed my life!” Her heartfelt speech highlighted themes of love and connection in a divided world.
Red Carpet and Closing Remarks
Jeff Goldblum, a familiar face from earlier red carpet coverage, presented the Album of the Year award, expressing his fondness for the North. Wolf Alice performed The Sofa from their Mercury Prize-nominated 2025 album The Clearing, before the event officially drew to a close.