Self Esteem has been pictured leaving Hammersmith Appollo with a bottle of champagne in hand following the news Mercury Prize 2022 had been cancelled in the wake of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.
The annual award ceremony had already axed its red carpet and was minutes from starting before organisers were forced to postpone the event until a later date out of respect for her majesty.
Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday evening that the Queen had died peacefully aged 96 in Balmoral just hours after it was announced that she was under medical supervision and ‘comfortable’.
Self Esteem, real name Rebecca Taylor, was hotly tipped to win this year’s Prize following the release of her second album Prioritise Pleasure.
Looking dapper in a black blazer with leather harness detailing around her breasts, she could be seen exiting the venue with a bottle of Moet & Chandon in her right hand.
In light of the Queen’s death, it was confirmed that the Mercury Prize will be rescheduled for a later date.
Queen Elizabeth II dead: Key details
She died at the age of 96 surrounded by her family at her home in Balmoral, including her son and heir to the throne Charles, the Prince of Wales, and her grandsons, the Duke Of Cambridge, Prince William and the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry.
Follow Metro.co.uk’s live blog for the latest updates.
A spokesperson said in a statement: ‘Tonight’s Mercury Prize event has been postponed at this time of great national sorrow. We know everyone involved in the Mercury Prize will understand.
‘Our thoughts and condolences are with The Royal Family at this very difficult time.
‘We will make an announcement regarding future arrangements as soon as we are able.’
Harry Styles, Little Simz, and Sam Fender were among the 12 artists leading this year’s shortlist for the Prize.
The ceremony was set to feature live performances from Sam, Simz, Fergus McCreadie, Gwenno, Jessie Buckley & Bernard Butler, Joy Crookes, Kojey Radical, Nova Twins, Self Esteem, Wet Leg, and Yard Act.
Don’t Worry Darling star Harry Styles was nominated with his critically acclaimed third solo album, Harry’s House, but he was not expected to attend due to his Love On Tour shows in America.
It was also announced that the BBC Proms will not be going ahead ‘as a mark of respect’.
Thursday’s event, Prom 70: The Philadelphia Orchestra and Yannick Nézet-Séguin, had been due to begin at 7.30pm, with the announcement of the Queen’s death being made an hour earlier.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
For all the latest Entertainment News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
