Graham Norton Replaces Joanna Lumley As Bafta Awards Host

The Absolutely Fabulous star received a mixed reception from viewers, after some of her jokes failed to land.
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Graham Norton has been announced as the new host of the Bafta film awards.

The chat show host replaces Joanna Lumley at the helm of the ceremony, which celebrates the year in cinema.

Graham Norton is the new host of the Baftas
Graham Norton is the new host of the Baftas
BAFTA/Charlie Clift

Graham has previously hosted the Bafta TV awards on various occasions, but 2020 will mark the first time he has presented the film awards.

He 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,” he added.

Joanna Lumley has presented the ceremony for the last two years
Joanna Lumley has presented the ceremony for the last two years
Mike Marsland via Getty Images

Absolutely Fabulous star Joanna had hosted the previous two years, after replacing long-standing host Stephen Fry.

However, she was met with a mixed reception from viewers during both ceremonies, after some of her jokes failed to land.

The nominations for next year’s Baftas are set to be revealed on 7 January, with the ceremony taking place less than a month later on 2 February.

Organisers have also announced Cirque du Soleil will return to perform at the during the show for the fourth year, with a piece especially created for the ceremony.

Olivia Colman

Bafta 2019 Red Carpet

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