Olivier Awards partners with BBC for prime-time broadcast

While the ceremony has previously been broadcast, it has tended to be in later slots and in a highlights format in more recent years.

The BBC coverage will be delivered in partnership with Penny Lane Entertainment, which has produced numerous event specials across music, comedy and entertainment.

The Olivier Awards returns to the BBC having last been on BBC television in 1981, following which it had radio coverage. 

Suzy Klein, head of BBC Arts and classical music TV, said: “As the leading cultural broadcaster in the UK, BBC Arts is committed to sharing world-class performances from across the country. We are delighted to be the official broadcast partner for the 2026 Olivier Awards, bringing the magic of theatre into homes across the nation as part of a rich season of arts programming on the BBC.”

Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, said: “Cunard has long celebrated the very best in art, culture and exceptional entertainment experiences, and we are incredibly proud to be the headline partner of the Olivier Awards – the UK’s most prestigious stage honours. This partnership reflects our shared passion for outstanding performance, storytelling and British heritage, both on land and at sea.”

As part of its plans for 2026, the Olivier Awards with Cunard will be celebrating the "crucial role that UK theatre plays as an incubator of talent", by linking past winners and nominees with the local venues that inspired and nurtured them. 

In addition, a new partnership with the Observer will offer enhanced coverage of the nominations and events surrounding the awards, including a series of nominee portraits.

Alongside Cunard, the Olivier Awards has secured additional partners including Audi, returning as Official Car Partner, Edmunds Cocktails, the Ivy, and Fortnum & Mason.