Roger Daltrey made a surprise appearance at this year’s Teenage Cancer Trust Concert Series to present Robert Smith with a special award recognising his role as guest curator of the 2026 shows.
The moment took place at Royal Albert Hall in London, where Smith has overseen the line-up for this year’s fundraising run.
Roger Daltrey praises Robert Smith’s contribution
Daltrey, who founded the concert series more than two decades ago, highlighted the effort involved from artists supporting the charity.
“Robert’s done a fantastic job — absolutely fantastic — and he’s played concerts before for us in the past.”
“Bands give up an awful lot to do this. When we started this 26 years ago, touring was just a small part of their income. That has changed. We’re so grateful.”
Smith is the first in a new wave of guest curators expected to shape future editions of the concerts.
Robert Smith on the importance of the cause
The Cure frontman spoke about why the charity’s mission resonates personally.
“I was 17 when I started the band that turned into The Cure. There was so much I wanted to do. It is hard to imagine the impact it would have had on my life if at that age I had heard the words ‘you have cancer’.”
He added that funds raised through the concerts support young people from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.
“The money raised ensures Teenage Cancer Trust can support young people from that first devastating moment of diagnosis, through every step of their treatment and beyond.”
Smith also emphasised that the shows celebrate youth and resilience, not just fundraising.
Curated line-up spans generations
This year’s programme features a mix of established and contemporary acts, including:
- Elbow
- Manic Street Preachers
- My Bloody Valentine
- Garbage
- Wolf Alice
Smith also curated a special comedy night as part of the series.
Reflecting on the line-up, he said:
“I wanted to make this a truly unforgettable week.”
“Each of them is either legendary or at the top of their game — indeed, in most cases, they are both. I am sure it is going to be a fabulous week.”
Live highlights from the 2026 shows
Mogwai delivered one of the standout performances on 25 March 2026, dedicating a track to Smith during their set.
Before playing Killing All The Flies, frontman Stuart Braithwaite told the audience:
“We want to dedicate this song to Robert (Smith) for inviting us to play. Thanks so much.”
Meanwhile, Manic Street Preachers are set to headline on 26 March 2026, marking their 150th live show.
Fundraising impact remains central
Jane Ashton, Head of Music and Entertainment at Teenage Cancer Trust, highlighted the wider impact of the concerts.
“Once again, the music and entertainment industry has come together for a fantastic cause. Money raised from the Royal Albert Hall shows changes lives by funding specialist care and support for young people with cancer.”
“The 2025 series raised a wonderful record-breaking £2.05 million, but we’d love to beat it! The urgent need to support young people when they hear the devastating words ‘its cancer’ remains.”
She added that continued support from artists and audiences is vital to helping young people navigate treatment and rebuild their lives.
