Graham Norton is taking over the hosting duties for the next EE British Academy Film Awards, replacing Joanna Lumley who presented the previous two shows.
Norton presented the British Academy Television Awards ceremony 15 years ago and he and his hit BBC series, The Graham Norton Show, have a combined 19 BAFTA nominations and six BAFTA Television Awards wins.
The author and comedian said: “I’m delighted to be taking the helm of the biggest night in British Film, the audience at the Royal Albert Hall will be the biggest sofa I’ve ever faced.
“I’m honoured to be following in the fabulous footsteps of Stephen Fry and Joanna Lumley.”
Amanda Berry OBE, Chief Executive of BAFTA, added: “I am absolutely delighted that Graham Norton will host the EE British Academy Film Awards on Sunday 2 February, 2020.
“He will bring his brilliance and unique brand of humour to the role. The Film Awards is transmitted around the world, and those audiences know him too.
“With Graham as our host I have no doubt we will deliver a very special celebration of the very best in film, and pay tribute to the most talented and creative people both in front of and behind the camera.”
The ceremony will be returning to London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, and broadcast on BBC One, BBC One HD and BBC iPlayer.
Kate Phillips, Controller of BBC Entertainment, said: “Graham’s wit and charisma has made him one of the UK’s most successful television show hosts and I could not think of a better person to pick up the baton from the absolutely fabulous Joanna Lumley.
“As the BAFTA Film Awards 2020 host I can’t wait for Graham to entertain everyone at home, as well as all the film greats who will be joining him in the very regal and resplendent Royal Albert Hall.”
Award nominations will be revealed on 7th January 2020, following the EE Rising Star nominations on 6th January 2020.
