The Who Close Teenage Cancer Trust Concerts With Heavy Metal Spirit

The Royal Albert Hall roared on Sunday night as The Who brought down the curtain on this year’s Teenage Cancer Trust concert series with a heavy dose of rock history, musical firepower, and a heartfelt sense of purpose.

Surrounded by fans, celebrities, and long-time supporters of the charity, including Hollywood legend Bill Murray, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend delivered a set that was equal parts thunderous and tender, proving yet again why The Who remain titans of the stage.

With only four days of rehearsals, My Generation still powered along wonderfully before moving into See Me, Feel Me/Listening To You. There was some ’80s joy with You Better You Bet.

This was a set of hits that delighted the audience. I Can’t Explain, Substitute, The Kids Are Alright. The gorgeous Behind Blue Eyes was followed by a soaring Real Me.

There was time for a few jokes too. “Many of you will know this is not my chosen career,” Pete Townsend said. “I would have preferred to have been a dustman, to be honest. But it’s glorious to be here with people like you tonight. Thank you so much.”

A standing ovation was held for for Baba O’Riley, while Won’t Get Fooled Again saw the auditorium clapping along for the intro. As for Daltrey, here his scream was as huge as you could want. 

Hollywood star Bill Murray recalled seeing The Who play 50 years ago and caught up with Roger Daltrey backstage after the gig.

Singer Roger Daltrey CBE launched the Teenage Cancer Trust concert series in 2000, and it has gone on to be an essential part of the UK’s music calendar while raising more than £34 million for the charity. In 2026, The Cure’s Robert Smith will step in as guest curator.

Kate Collins, Chief Executive of Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “We are delighted that some of the biggest names from across the music, and entertainment industry are performing at this year’s Teenage Cancer Trust gigs at the Royal Albert Hall. We couldn’t be more grateful for their commitment to raising vital funds for young people with cancer.

“These concerts, brainchild of – and driven by – the legendary Roger Daltrey since 2000, have raised a phenomenal £34 million to fund Teenage Cancer Trust’s work across the UK – making our specialist support possible across the UK so that young people with cancer get the expert, individual care and support they need at this unique and critical stage of their lives. 

“These gigs would not exist without Roger, who remains a tireless Honorary Patron for the charity and is unstoppable in his support for young people with cancer.

“Teenage Cancer Trust exists because cancer care wasn’t made for young people. Without us, a young person diagnosed with cancer today would find themselves lumped together with small children or much older adults. It’s only thanks to our supporters that we can continue to be there for every young person who needs us. 

“We’re deeply thankful to everyone who is involved in making these concerts possible—from the artists and the teams to the people who buy tickets to the shows.”

Jamie Johnson, Head of Music and Entertainment at Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “I see firsthand the incredible impact the music and entertainment industry can make when it rallies behind a cause. The Royal Albert Hall shows are a cornerstone of our charity’s work, and their success is only possible thanks to the unwavering support of artists, managers, agents, promoters, crew, and our generous audiences.

“To date, these concerts have raised millions to funding specialist care and transform the experience of cancer for young people at a critical time in their lives. But the need has never been greater. The support of the music and entertainment industry remains vital to ensuring we can continue this life-changing work.”

The shows are also proudly supported by American Airlines, Metro, Absolute Radio, S.J.M. Concerts, Twickets, and the Royal Albert Hall.

Aldi, which has partnered with Teenage Cancer Trust since 2017, and raised over £11 million for the charity to date, is the headline sponsor for this year’s Royal Albert Hall series. 

Domino’s, which has partnered with Teenage Cancer Trust for ten years and has raised £8 million for the charity, is the official sponsor of the Ultimate Backstage Experience.

The Who – Photography by Patrick Gunning.

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