Jamie Laing has humorously declared he's entered his 'midlife crisis era' since becoming a first-time father, as he and his wife Sophie Habboo took a break from parenting duties to attend the BRIT Awards on Saturday. The couple, who welcomed their son Ziggy in December, shared that their baby boy is already 'smiling and laughing,' bringing immense joy to their lives.
Parenting Joys and Fashion Statements
Speaking to the Daily Mail on the red carpet, Jamie poked fun at his eye-catching outfit, which included a tank top and sunglasses, while Sophie arrived in a plunging black thigh-split gown. The Made In Chelsea star reflected on the 'pressure' to bounce back after giving birth, emphasizing she simply wanted to choose something 'fun' for the evening.
Sophie expressed her delight in motherhood, saying, 'Everything! He's now smiling and laughing and he just looks at me and smiles and I go 'you make my world go round!' which is the best.' Jamie added, 'It's just the coolest thing ever, I have a little baby that I just love more than anything, it's the best thing ever.'
Midlife Crisis and Family Concerns
Jamie joked about his new style, stating, 'I've gone for a tank top, I've never worn a tank top ever, and sunglasses,' with Sophie agreeing, 'Jamie in his dad era is really bringing it, he's restyled himself.' He quipped, 'This is my midlife crisis era, and I'm gonna dress like this forever now. I'm the better parent, I am by far the better parent, no I think she's the better parent.'
Ahead of the ceremony, the couple sent their 'thoughts and prayers' to the Middle East amid missile strikes, as Sophie's sister, Georgia, her husband, and their baby daughter are stuck in Dubai after an Iranian missile struck the Palm Jumeirah. They attended the event at Manchester's Co-op Live Arena with brave faces amid escalating fears in the region.
BRIT Awards Move to Manchester
The 46th edition of the BRIT Awards launched at Manchester's Co-op Live Arena for the first time, marking a historic shift from its traditional London venue. This move signals a new era for the ceremony, with plans to rotate locations across the UK in the future.
Female-Led Nominations and Highlights
After facing backlash for low female representation in past years, the 2026 nominations see 70 percent of nominees being female or non-binary. Lola Young and Olivia Dean lead with five nominations each, followed by Lily Allen with three for her album 'West End Girl.'
Other notable nominees include Dave in three categories and Raye, who holds the record for most BRIT Awards won at a single ceremony. The event will feature performances by Olivia Dean and Raye, with a tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, who will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Host and Venue Changes
Comedian Jack Whitehall returns to host the ceremony for the sixth time, expressing excitement about presenting in Manchester, where he began his comedy career. The move to Manchester is praised by industry figures, including Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, who highlighted the city's music heritage.
The BRIT Awards continue to evolve, celebrating diversity and innovation in British music while embracing new locations and audiences.
