Mercury Prize 2022 have reportedly cancelled their plans for a red carpet ahead of this evening's ceremony out of respect for Queen Elizabeth II.
According to the Metro, the awards ceremony is still expected to go ahead as planned later this evening [September 8], but it is understood that the celebrities and nominees in attendance will not walk the red carpet at the Eventim Apollo, London.
The Mercury Prize's red carpet being axed comes after news broke that "doctors are concerned for Her Majesty's health" earlier today, following weeks of speculation surrounding the monarch's wellbeing.
Buckingham Palace issued a rare statement on the Queen's health earlier today [September 8] to inform the public that she remains comfortable and is staying at Balmoral. The statement said: "Following further evaluation this morning, The Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision.
Prince Charles, Camilla and Prince William have rushed to Balmoral to be by her side while other members of the royal family were informed of the news earlier this afternoon. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were due to attend the WellChild Awards ceremony in London this evening, but have changed their plans in light of the news.
Self Esteem - legal name Rebecca Lucy Taylor - is currently the bookmakers' favourite to take home the Mercury Prize for her critically acclaimed second album, Prioritise Pleasure later this evening.
Don't Worry Darling actor Harry Styles, Sam Fender and Little Simz are also among the acts in the running to be honoured with the prestigious prize
Former One Direction singer Harry, 28, received a nomination for his third studio album Harry’s House, while Little Simz has secured another Mercury prize nomination this year for Sometimes I Might be Introvert – having also featured in the 2019 shortlist with her album Grey Area.
Geordie singer Sam, 28, is nominated for his second album Seventeen Going Under. The popular singer scooped the Brit award for best rock alternative act earlier this year and was also awarded the Ivor Novello for best song musically and lyrically for his classic rock-inspired title track.
Also among the nominees are Wet Leg, who are due to support fellow nominee Harry on tour next year. Hailing from Isle of Wight the duo made headlines with their Glastonbury performance earlier this year and have received a nomination for their self-titled debut album.
Rock duo Nova Twins also made the final cut of nominees for their album Supernova, while Scottish pianist Fergus McCreadie was nominated for album Forest Floor following the highly acclaimed Cairn released last year.
This evening’s awards show will feature a variety of live performances from all of the nominees apart from Harry, who will be absent due to his touring commitments in America. A filmed live performance is scheduled to be shown to celebrate his album due to his no-show.
BBC Radio DJ Lauren Laverne will host the proceedings at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith, while former Radio One presenter Annie Mac takes on the role of guest presenter. Author Annie, 44, also a member of the 2022 judging panel, will be the one to announce the overall winner of the 2022 Mercury Prize for Album of the Year.
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