The acclaimed alternative rock band Wolf Alice have been officially announced as the latest performers for the highly anticipated 2026 BRIT Awards, set to take place next month in Manchester. This exciting addition to the star-studded line-up sees the group joining previously confirmed artists Harry Styles and Olivia Dean for what promises to be a spectacular ceremony at the Co-op Live arena.
A Prestigious Invitation and Manchester Excitement
Bassist Theo Ellis expressed the band's delight at the invitation, stating, 'We're truly honoured to get the opportunity to play this year's BRIT Awards! Can't wait to see what everyone's wearing, can't wait to see who else is playing, can't wait to have ten mini wines (after we play). Most of all can't wait for a big night out in Manny. Make sure to tune in and watch it all live on the telly.' The event marks a significant shift from its long-standing London base, with Manchester hosting the prestigious awards for the first time since 2011, a move likely to be replicated across the UK in future years.
Triple Nomination for The Clearing
Wolf Alice enter the ceremony with considerable momentum, having secured three nominations for their latest album, The Clearing, which was released last summer. The band is in contention for:
- Album of the Year for The Clearing
- Group of the Year
- Alternative/Rock Act
These nominations were part of the full list revealed last week, positioning the band among the frontrunners at this year's event.
Headline Acts and Major Comebacks
The performance line-up features major stars, each bringing their own narrative to the Manchester stage. Harry Styles is poised to make his live television performance debut of music from his forthcoming fourth album, KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY, scheduled for release on March 6. This marks his first stage performance in three years, since his Love on Tour concluded in 2023. His comeback includes a seven-city summer tour, beginning in Amsterdam on May 16 and concluding in Sydney, with special guests such as Robyn and Shania Twain.
However, Styles' tour plans have sparked some controversy, with fans criticising the high ticket prices for his Wembley Stadium dates. The singer has added two extra Wembley shows, bringing his total to a record-breaking 12 performances at the venue this summer, surpassing Coldplay's previous record for a single tour.
Leading Nominees and Female Representation
The 2026 nominations showcase a strong field, led by Olivia Dean and Lola Young with five nominations each. Sam Fender follows closely with four nods, while Lily Allen, Dave, Fred again.., and Jim Legxacy have each received three. Notably, this year represents a significant turnaround in gender representation, with 70% of nominations being female or non-binary artists, addressing previous criticism about the lack of female nominees since the removal of gendered categories in 2022.
Olivia Dean, a BRIT School alumna, expressed her excitement about performing, saying, 'To go from being a student of The BRIT School in the crowd to being a performer 10 years later is really crazy, and I'm so excited to see everyone in Manchester.' Her breakthrough year saw her achieve the UK's number one single and album simultaneously, a feat last accomplished by Adele in 2021.
Other Notable Contenders and Ceremony Details
The awards feature a diverse range of nominees, including:
- Lily Allen, making a major comeback with her album West End Girl, nominated for Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Pop Act.
- Dave, recognised in three categories, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for The Boy Who Played The Harp.
- International stars like Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, and Lady Gaga in various categories.
- British icons Pulp, receiving their first Group of the Year nomination since 1996.
Comedian Jack Whitehall returns to host the ceremony for the sixth time, ensuring his signature wit guides the evening. The BRIT Awards 2026 will be broadcast live on February 28, celebrating the best of British and international music from its new Manchester home.
