Lauren Laverne will host this year's Mercury Prize Awards, taking to the stage at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle for the annual ceremony. The radio host returns to her native north east for the event, which is scheduled for October 22.
Reaction to the announcement
Sharing the news on Instagram, Lauren replied: "HAWAY!!!!" and added praising hands emojis. Fans were loving the decision, with one user branding it "unreal".
The ceremony, broadcast on BBC Four and BBC Radio 6 Music, will feature live performances from Dove Ellis, Florence + The Machine, JADE, Knats, Kojey Radical, Nia Archives, Olivia Dean, RAYE, Suede and Pulp, who will perform on behalf of the HELP(2) album.
Prize history and significance
The overall winner of the 2026 Mercury Prize will be announced on the night. Last year saw Geordie hero Sam Fender claim the Prize, and other recent past winners include English Teacher, Ezra Collective, Little Simz, Dave, Wolf Alice, Young Fathers, and more.
The Mercury Prize recognises the best new British and Irish music, celebrating artistic achievement across an eclectic range of contemporary music genres. As an independent arts prize, it champions the album format, acts as a snapshot of the year in music and often provides a major platform for up-and-coming artists and their musical work. The Prize has been an important milestone in past winners' journeys, acting as a stepping stone to wider success in the UK and Ireland as well as internationally.
Mercury Prize Fringe programme
The 2026 Mercury Prize Fringe will bring a host of activity to Newcastle throughout the week, showcasing more than just a one-night occasion. Organisers are promising the "biggest programme yet" for this year's Fringe, with more than 30 events set to head to venues across the city between October 15-22.
Among the highlights will be local hero Sam Fender's Live at London Stadium film being premiered. The special screening will be accompanied by a panel exploring Fender's artistic journey, the cultural impact of his music and the creative process behind the film.
Dr Jo Twist OBE, CEO of the BPI, organisers of the Mercury Prize, added: "We're so delighted to be bringing the Mercury Fringe back to Newcastle in October, with a bigger and bolder programme than ever thanks to our partners at Generator and Newcastle City Council."
"Newcastle is a true music city, and we're grateful to its incredible music ecosystem for welcoming the Mercury Prize. We know this year's Fringe will offer the local community an important opportunity to connect, inspire and create a lasting legacy together."
