Showbiz News
-
-
-
Loading
Loading
Sam Fender has been crowned the winner of the Mercury Prize 2025 for his critically acclaimed album People Watching. The celebrated musician took home the prestigious award during a spectacular ceremony at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, a fitting location for the North East star, as it marked the first time the event had ever been held in his hometown.
The annual Mercury Prize honours the best British or Irish album of the year, and this year’s ceremony was one of the most hotly anticipated yet. Fender’s People Watching triumphed over an impressive shortlist of 12 artists that included Pulp, FKA Twigs, Wolf Alice, CMAT, and Fontaines D.C., among others.
Throughout the night, many of the nominated acts performed live, showcasing the incredible range and diversity of music represented. But when the time came to announce the winner, it was clear that the local hero had captured both the judges’ and audience’s hearts.
Accepting the award to thunderous applause, Fender looked overwhelmed but proud. As the audience cheered him on, he raised his Mercury Prize trophy high and led the crowd in a chant of “Toon Toon!”, a tribute to his beloved Newcastle roots. The arena erupted in celebration, with fans joining in to share the moment with one of the city’s biggest success stories.
In his acceptance speech, the 31-year-old singer-songwriter thanked his band, management, and the local music scene that helped shape his career. He also gave heartfelt recognition to his “very good friends” who were also nominated, including Irish rockers Fontaines D.C. and rising star CMAT. “I’m in great company tonight,” he said, smiling. “There’s so much unbelievable talent on this stage. It’s mad even being mentioned alongside some of these artists.”
Fender then dedicated his award to Annie Orwin, a close friend and muse who tragically passed away and served as the inspiration behind much of People Watching. “This one’s for Annie,” he said, visibly emotional. “She was a light in all of our lives, and I hope this record keeps a bit of her spirit alive.”
People Watching has been hailed by critics as Fender’s most personal and mature work to date, blending his trademark storytelling with soulful introspection and raw honesty. The album explores themes of loneliness, fame, grief, and connection, all tied together with his unmistakable North East grit.
Fans and fellow musicians took to social media to celebrate Fender’s win, with many calling it a “homecoming victory” that reflects how far he’s come since his early days gigging in pubs around Newcastle. The singer, who previously won two BRIT Awards and an Ivor Novello, now adds the Mercury Prize to his growing list of accolades.
The Mercury Prize judges praised People Watching for its emotional depth and authenticity, describing it as “an album that speaks to a generation with heart, vulnerability, and truth.”
As the night ended, Fender told reporters backstage that celebrating this milestone in his hometown made it even more meaningful. “Winning the Mercury anywhere would have been unreal,” he said, “but winning it in Newcastle, surrounded by my mates and family, that’s something I’ll never forget.”
With this win, Sam Fender has cemented his place as one of the UK’s most important modern rock voices, and this Mercury Prize victory feels like a full-circle moment for “The Geordie Boss.”
