Ant and Dec have revealed a firm stance on returning to host the Brit Awards: never again. The beloved duo, known for their decades-long partnership and hosting prowess, recently shared their candid experiences on their new podcast, “Hanging Out with Ant and Dec.” Their insights paint a picture of a chaotic night far removed from the glamour seen on screen.
Having hosted the prestigious awards show three times – in 2001, 2015, and 2016 – they’ve seen enough of the Brits to last a lifetime. Ant described the challenge of managing a room full of people primarily focused on enjoying themselves, while simultaneously trying to deliver a polished television broadcast.
The logistical hurdles proved particularly frustrating. Artists, eager to cooperate before the show, often changed their minds at the last minute, disrupting carefully planned segments. A specific example involved Coldplay, who reportedly declined a pre-performance interview just ten minutes before going live.
Dec playfully suggested this incident marked the beginning of a “beef” between Ant and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, a claim Ant quickly dismissed. However, the anecdote highlights a recurring theme: the unpredictable nature of live television and the difficulty of coordinating with high-profile performers.
Beyond scheduling headaches, the duo recalled the 2015 ceremony with a surprising admission. While the night is famously remembered for Madonna’s dramatic fall from the stage, Ant and Dec completely missed it. They were celebrating backstage with champagne, oblivious to the on-stage mishap.
Ultimately, Dec concluded that the greatest satisfaction came from simply getting through the show. The experience, while memorable, wasn’t one they were eager to repeat. This year, the responsibility falls to Jack Whitehall, who will host the awards in Manchester – a first for the event.
The 2026 Brit Awards promise a fresh energy with performances from Harry Styles and showcases for emerging talents like Olivia Dean and Lola Young. Noel Gallagher is also set to be honored with the Songwriter of the Year award, ensuring a night of celebration and recognition within the British music industry.
