News : Sam Smith’s London Coliseum Concert to Air on the BBC

BBC One and BBC Radio 2 are set to air a special performance from five time Grammy Award winner Sam Smith. Called Sam Smith: Live at the London Coliseum, the show will be filmed on Wednesday 9th September during the UK portion of their 'To Be Free' residency.

Selected moments from the event will be played on Jo Whiley's BBC Radio 2 programme on Thursday 24th September between 7pm and 9pm, alongside a special conversation with Smith. The television and radio broadcasts will later be accessible through BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds.

For the residency, Smith joined forces with BBC Introducing to find 10 rising British artists to support the Manchester and London shows. After receiving more than 1,500 entries, Smith personally picked Nyah Grace, Will Parker, Bradley Jago, Becky Sikasa, Sebastian Schub, Tia Gordon, Taylor Bleu, Josie Oliver, Tamzene and Tyler Lewis for the opportunity.

Speaking about the partnership, Sam Smith said: "My 'To Be Free' residencies across the world have been such incredible live experiences. I’m delighted to invite some wonderful new artists onto the stage for these shows and share in the moment with them."

Jonathan Rothery, Head of BBC Popular Music TV, commented: "Sam Smith is one of the UK’s most distinctive musical voices, and someone who we’ve championed on the BBC for many years. I’m delighted that we’ll be able to bring what I know will be a powerful and uplifting night of music to audiences."

Kelly Betts, Editor of BBC Introducing, stated: "BBC Introducing exists to champion and elevate emerging artists, so we're thrilled to bring together one of the world's biggest stars with ten brilliant Introducing acts."

The performance and accompanying collaboration are included in the BBC’s Summer of Music 2026 schedule, bringing major music documentaries, festival broadcasts and specially commissioned shows to audiences through television, radio and online platforms.