Olivia Dean Favoured for Mercury Prize, Turns Down Glastonbury Headline

Olivia Dean, the 27‑year‑old British singer‑songwriter, has become the leading contender for the 2026 Mercury Prize for Best Album. William Hill listed her at 6/1 odds, ahead of Florence & the Machine, RAYE and other nominees. William Hill spokesperson Lee Phelps said her album *The Art Of Loving* “has resonated in a way that’s pushed her ahead of heavyweights,” explaining the shift in the betting market.

Dean also declined an invitation to headline Glastonbury Festival in 2027, saying she wants to focus on new music and plans to return in 2028. The decision follows her collaboration with Sam Fender on “Rein Me In,” which broke a 73‑year record for the longest‑running UK number‑one single, spending 19 weeks at the top of the charts.