The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has announced that Alan Cumming will serve as the host for the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards, set to take place on May 11 at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London. Known for his versatility and charisma, Cumming’s involvement marks an exciting chapter in the prestigious awards show’s history.
Cumming, a multi-talented performer with a career spanning stage, screen, and beyond, is well-regarded for his distinctive style and magnetic presence. His acting credentials are stellar, with awards including a Tony Award and an Olivier Award for his standout performance in Cabaret. Additionally, he earned a Golden Globe Award for his role on the hit television series The Good Wife, where he also served as an executive producer.
In recent years, Cumming has garnered widespread attention for his role as a host on The Traitors U.S., a reality series that has won over audiences with its high-stakes drama and Cumming’s lively and engaging hosting style. His work on the show has earned him two Emmy Awards and two Critics Choice Awards, further solidifying his reputation as a charismatic and versatile entertainer.
“We’re delighted that Alan Cumming will be hosting this year’s BAFTA Television Awards,” said Emma Baehr, executive director of awards and content at BAFTA. “He will definitely bring a playful sense of mischief and fun to the ceremony, so audiences should expect the unexpected at Britain’s biggest celebration of TV.”
As host, Cumming is expected to bring his signature wit and charm to the event, which celebrates the best in British television. Known for his unpredictable and entertaining style, Cumming’s appointment is sure to add an exciting dynamic to the annual ceremony. His flair for engaging with audiences both in-person and on-screen has made him a favorite among fans and critics alike.
The announcement of Cumming as host comes as anticipation builds for the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards, with the countdown officially underway. This year’s ceremony promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, as the industry looks forward to recognizing the standout talent and achievements in television over the past year.
Nominations for the 49 competitive categories across the BAFTA Television Awards and BAFTA Television Craft Awards will be revealed this Thursday. The announcement of the nominees will mark a significant milestone in the lead-up to the ceremony, as the spotlight shines on the most innovative and celebrated programs in television.
In a move aimed at reflecting the evolving landscape of children’s programming, the BAFTA Television Awards will also introduce new categories for children’s television this year. These categories will feature an extended eligibility window, as announced last September, in a bid to better recognize the diverse and exceptional content aimed at younger audiences.
The 2025 ceremony will be broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer in the U.K., ensuring that viewers across the country can tune in to watch the awards unfold. Last year’s ceremony attracted a significant audience, with an average viewership of 2.7 million across BBC One and iPlayer. Additionally, social media coverage for the event generated more than 7 million views, highlighting the global appeal and widespread interest in the BAFTA Television Awards.
For international audiences, the ceremony will be available to stream via BritBox in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the Nordic regions, as well as on Foxtel in Australia. The ceremony will also reach viewers across Africa and the Middle East, where it will be broadcast on AlThaqafeya and MBC Channels in 24 countries. In Asia, audiences in 13 countries will be able to enjoy the event via Rewind Networks, with additional regions expected to be confirmed closer to the event.
The BAFTA Television Awards are among the most prestigious accolades in the entertainment industry, celebrating excellence in television production, acting, writing, and direction. This year’s ceremony promises to continue that legacy by honoring the best and brightest talent in British television, with Cumming at the helm to add his unique touch to the festivities.
As the May 11 date approaches, excitement continues to build, with fans and industry professionals alike eagerly anticipating the star-studded event. Whether it’s the unveiling of this year’s nominees or the electric atmosphere of the live broadcast, the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards are shaping up to be a must-see event for television enthusiasts around the world.
Alan Cumming’s appointment as host brings a fresh, playful energy to the BAFTA Television Awards, setting the stage for a memorable evening of celebration and entertainment.
