Manchester is basking in the afterglow of a hugely successful Brit Awards, marking the first time the prestigious ceremony has been held outside of London in its nearly 50-year history. The event, held at the Co-op Live arena on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, has sparked a wave of enthusiasm, with many hoping it signals a turning point for the city’s status as a major cultural hub. Social media personality Morgan Burtwistle, known as Angry Ginge, has been among the most vocal in celebrating the event and its potential impact.
Burtwistle, who rose to prominence through his online content and recently appeared on the reality television present “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” in 2025, publicly declared Manchester “the place to be” following the Brit Awards. His comments reflect a growing sentiment that the city is poised to attract more large-scale events and further solidify its position on the global stage. The 46th edition of the Brit Awards brought together some of the biggest names in pop and rock music, showcasing Manchester’s capacity to host a world-class event.
A Historic Shift for the Brit Awards
The decision to move the Brit Awards from London, its home since the inaugural ceremony in 1977, was a significant one. For decades, the capital city had been synonymous with the awards show, but organizers opted for a change, selecting Manchester as the host city. This move was not simply a logistical one; it represented a deliberate effort to broaden the reach of the awards and acknowledge the vibrant music scene thriving outside of London. The Co-op Live arena, a state-of-the-art venue that opened in December 2023, provided a fitting backdrop for this historic occasion.
The choice of Manchester also aligns with broader efforts to level up cultural opportunities across the United Kingdom. The government’s Levelling Up Agenda, launched in February 2022, aims to reduce regional inequalities and invest in communities outside of London. Even as the Brit Awards’ move isn’t directly tied to this initiative, it embodies the spirit of decentralization and the recognition of cultural strengths in different parts of the country.
Angry Ginge’s Vocal Support and Controversy
Angry Ginge’s enthusiastic endorsement of Manchester has garnered significant attention, particularly on social media. He wasn’t the only celebrity in attendance; the event drew a star-studded crowd, but his candid remarks resonated with many. However, his appearance wasn’t without a moment of controversy. During his presentation of the International Song of the Year award, alongside professional darts player Luke Littler, Burtwistle made a pointed comment about London, stating, “It’s an absolute privilege to see the Brits in Manchester because it shows people are realising London is a sh*thole!” The Manchester Evening News reported that the comment prompted a swift reaction from the broadcast team, with the audio seemingly being cut.
The incident quickly became a talking point online, with viewers expressing confusion and debate over the censorship. While some applauded Burtwistle’s bold statement, others criticized it as unnecessarily divisive. John Fisher, a social media personality and father of boxer Johnny Fisher, responded to Burtwistle’s comment, stating that while he liked Burtwistle as a person, London remained “the best city in the world.” SportBible covered the exchange, highlighting the differing opinions on the matter.
Manchester’s Growing Cultural Influence
Beyond the Brit Awards, Manchester has been steadily establishing itself as a cultural powerhouse. The city boasts a rich musical heritage, having been the birthplace of iconic bands like The Smiths, Oasis, and Joy Division. Its vibrant music scene continues to thrive, with numerous independent venues and a thriving grassroots music community. The city’s cultural offerings extend beyond music, encompassing theatre, art galleries, and a diverse culinary scene.
The BBC has also played a significant role in promoting Manchester’s cultural landscape. BBC Radio Manchester provides local news, music, and entertainment, while the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra is based in the city. The relocation of parts of the BBC to MediaCityUK in Salford in 2011 further cemented Manchester’s position as a media hub. As the BBC reports, Angry Ginge himself acknowledged the positive impact of the Brit Awards in showcasing the city’s strengths.
The Co-op Live Arena: A New Landmark
The Co-op Live arena, the venue for the 2026 Brit Awards, is a key component of Manchester’s growing cultural infrastructure. With a capacity of 23,500, it is the largest indoor arena in the UK and is expected to host a wide range of events, including concerts, sporting events, and conferences. The arena is a joint venture between the Co-operative Group, Oak View Group, and City Football Group, representing a significant investment in the city’s entertainment sector. The arena’s construction faced some delays, but it ultimately opened to the public in December 2023, becoming a focal point for cultural activity in the region.
Economic Impact and Future Events
The Brit Awards are expected to have a substantial economic impact on Manchester. The event attracted thousands of visitors to the city, boosting local businesses and generating revenue for the hospitality sector. Manchester City Council estimates that the Brit Awards will contribute millions of pounds to the local economy. The success of the 2026 ceremony has already prompted discussions about bringing other major events to Manchester, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for entertainment and culture.
Looking ahead, Manchester is poised to continue its ascent as a cultural leader. The city’s combination of musical heritage, vibrant arts scene, and modern infrastructure makes it an attractive location for events and investment. The enthusiasm generated by the Brit Awards, coupled with the support of local figures like Angry Ginge, suggests that Manchester’s cultural renaissance is well underway.
The next major event scheduled for the Co-op Live arena is a concert by Taylor Swift in June 2026. Ticket sales for the event are expected to be high, further demonstrating the city’s appeal as a destination for major musical performances. Readers interested in learning more about upcoming events at the Co-op Live arena can visit the venue’s official website at www.cooplive.com. What are your thoughts on Manchester hosting more large-scale events? Share your opinions in the comments below.
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