Joe McElderry 'thrilled' with national panto award

Joe McElderry has said he was thrilled to be named the "best magical being" at the UK Pantomime Awards 2026.

The South Shields singer, who won X Factor in 2009, was recognised for his role as the Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin at Newcastle Theatre Royal.

"Best magical being, I think that's the nicest thing I've ever been called in this industry," McElderry joked.

He said pantomime was so important for introducing the younger generations to theatre and performance, adding: "We just feel lucky that we get to do it as a job."

McElderry scooped the award at an event on Sunday, which also saw former EastEnders actor Nigel Harman crowned best pantomime villain.

He said he did not expect to win for the Crossroads Pantomimes run of more than 80 shows over the Christmas period.

"For a lot of people, we're their first experience of theatre, and then years later they come back with their kids," McElderry said.

"I'm now reaching that age where people who first came to see me in my career, now have children that they bring.

"And I'm like 'don't tell us this, I already feel old enough'."

McElderry is hosting a production this summer called Something in the Water, where talent from around the North East will perform and raise funds to support the next generation.

He said: "I feel like I've got to a point in my career where I've experienced amazing things and I just want to give back where I can, and celebrate new talent."

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