Why Was Noel Gallagher So Stony-Faced Next to Harry Styles and Robbie Williams at the Brits?

The 2026 Brit Awards are making waves as they unfold in Manchester, marking a historic first for the event outside London. With stars such as Harry Styles, Robbie Williams, and Maya Jama gracing the red carpet, the fashion this year leans heavily into classic black and white contrasts, setting a more subdued tone compared to previous years. Hosted by Jack Whitehall for a record sixth time, the event promises a night filled with music, tributes, and celebrity appearances.

Last updated: 03 March 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

The 2026 Brit Awards are currently in full swing, showcasing the who's who of the British music scene. The decision to hold the ceremony in Manchester has been a notable shift, bringing a different atmosphere to the prestigious event. With Jack Whitehall hosting yet again, viewers can expect a mix of humour and heartfelt moments, especially with tributes planned for the late Black Sabbath star, Ozzy Osbourne, which Robbie Williams is set to lead.

Key takeaways

The Brit Awards 2026 are being held in Manchester, marking a significant change in location.
Fashion trends this year are dominated by black and white contrasts.
Jack Whitehall is hosting the event for the sixth consecutive year.
Robbie Williams has been invited to lead a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne.
Harry Styles, Maya Jama, and other notable celebrities are in attendance.

Timeline: how we got here

The Brit Awards originated in 1977, celebrating the best in British music. Over the years, it has become a staple of the UK entertainment calendar. Here’s a brief timeline leading up to the 2026 ceremony:

1977: The first Brit Awards take place in London.
2022: The Brit Awards continue to grow, featuring a range of musical genres.
2025: The announcement is made to host the 2026 ceremony in Manchester.
2026: The Brit Awards are held on 3 March in Manchester, with a star-studded red carpet.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

This year, the Brit Awards have seen a shift towards a more classic and understated fashion sense. The red carpet has been filled with black and white outfits, signalling a departure from the vibrant colours typically seen in past events. Additionally, the tributes planned for Ozzy Osbourne are a new highlight for the evening.

What was already established

The Brit Awards have consistently celebrated the best in British music across various genres. Jack Whitehall's role as host has become a familiar fixture, bringing both comedy and charm to the proceedings. The event’s return to live audiences post-pandemic has also been a significant factor in its continuing popularity.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The change in venue for the Brit Awards to Manchester is expected to bring a boost to the local economy, with increased traffic in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Viewers across the UK will enjoy the ceremony broadcast live, bringing entertainment directly into their homes.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in Manchester are likely to see a surge in sales due to the influx of visitors for the awards. This event presents opportunities for jobs in hospitality and event management, further strengthening the local economy.

Policy and regulation

Authorities in Manchester have been working closely with event organisers to ensure safety and smooth logistics for the awards. This collaboration is indicative of a broader trend where major events are being hosted outside traditional locations, reflecting a shift in cultural dynamics across the UK.

Numbers that matter

50: Years since the Brit Awards first began in 1977.
6: Number of times Jack Whitehall has hosted the event.
1: First time the Brit Awards are held outside London.
3: Major stars present on the red carpet: Harry Styles, Robbie Williams, and Maya Jama.
100s: Of fans expected to gather outside the venue to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars.

Definitions and jargon buster

Brit Awards: An annual awards ceremony celebrating British and international artists across various music genres.
Tribute: A performance dedicated to honouring a musician or artist who has passed away.
Red carpet: A ceremonial entrance for celebrities, often associated with high-profile events.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Brit Awards conclude, viewers can expect follow-up coverage of performances and notable moments from the event. Social media will likely be buzzing with highlights and reactions.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The impact of the awards on local economies in Manchester will be assessed. Additionally, artists who performed or were nominated may see shifts in their popularity and sales following the event.

Signals to watch

Viewership ratings for the Brit Awards broadcast.
Sales figures for artists who performed or received awards.
Local business performance metrics in Manchester post-event.

Practical guidance

Do

Watch the highlights of the Brit Awards to catch any performances or announcements you may have missed.
Support local businesses in Manchester that benefited from the influx of visitors.
Follow social media for updates and reactions from attendees and performers.

Don’t

Don’t engage in negative commentary about the artists or their performances; celebrate the diversity of talent.
Don’t overlook the economic impact of hosting such events outside traditional venues.
Don’t forget to check out post-event analysis to understand the awards’ significance.

Checklist

Check the list of winners and nominees to see who took home awards.
Review outfit highlights to understand current fashion trends in the music industry.
Research the tributes paid to Ozzy Osbourne and their impact on fans and artists.
Stay updated on any follow-up events or concerts announced post-Brit Awards.
Explore local Manchester businesses that thrived during the awards weekend.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the Brit Awards are a highlight in the UK music calendar, there are always uncertainties regarding attendance and performance quality, especially with high-profile events like this one. Changes in public health guidelines or unforeseen circumstances could impact future events, and the long-term economic benefits for Manchester remain to be seen.

Bottom line

The 2026 Brit Awards represent a significant cultural moment, showcasing the talent and diversity of the British music scene while also benefiting the local economy of Manchester. As the event unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it influences trends in both music and fashion, as well as the broader economic landscape.

FAQs

What are the Brit Awards?

The Brit Awards are an annual ceremony celebrating British and international music artists, recognising their achievements in various genres.

Why are the Brit Awards being held in Manchester this year?

This year marks the first time the Brit Awards are hosted outside London, aiming to bring the event to a wider audience and celebrate music in different UK cities.

Who is hosting the Brit Awards 2026?

Jack Whitehall is hosting the Brit Awards for the sixth consecutive year, bringing his unique blend of humour and charm to the ceremony.