David Tennant to Host BAFTA Film Awards

David Tennant, best known for his role in Doctor Who, has been announced as the host of the BAFTA Film Awards. The notable actor will take the helm at the prestigious U.K. film event scheduled for Feb. 18 at the Royal Festival Hall in London. Tennant, whose body of work spans across film, television, and stage, including "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," "Good Omens," and "Broadchurch," expressed his delight at the opportunity to host the awards and pay tribute to notable contributions in the film industry. He is presently playing the role of Macbeth at the Donmar Warehouse.

BAFTA CEO, Jane Millichip, expressed immense excitement at Tennant's selection as host: "David Tennant is a beloved figure, not only in the UK but internationally, and his charisma, charm, and humor are sure to make the event a must-watch for our guests at the Royal Festival Hall and the viewers at home."

Tennant takes over hosting duties from Richard E. Grant and Rebel Wilson who anchored the ceremony in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The British Academy, which had relied on Stephen Fry's services for a long time, is now seemingly switching to fresh faces every year.

The announcement of Tennant's role came just before the unveiling of the BAFTA longlists that cover all 24 categories - due to be revealed on Jan. 5. Final nominations will be made public on Jan. 18 by former Rising Star award nominees Naomi Ackie and Kingsley Ben Adir.

The BAFTA Film Awards will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer within the UK, and on BritBox International for viewers in the U.S., Canada, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and South Africa.