David Tennant is to return as host of the British Academy Film Awards for the second consecutive year. The acclaimed actor, who has starred in Doctor Who, Good Omens, and the new Disney+ series Rivals, will present the ceremony set for February 16, 2025, at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
BAFTA Chief Executive Jane Millichip voiced her enthusiasm at Tennant’s return, referencing his spectacular show as host of the 77th awards earlier in this year. “We could not be happier that David Tennant is coming back to host the EE BAFTA Film Awards in 2025,” she said. “He is an absolute delight to work with, and this year he was outstanding – warm, witty, whip-smart, and with a delicious wink of mischief.”. It is a privilege to share Britain’s biggest celebration of film with TV audiences worldwide and to recognize the extraordinary creativity of those who power the British and global film industry.
The 78th BAFTAs will reunite the film enthusiasts with industry professionals once again, continuing their tradition of being one of the most anticipated nights in the calendar of world cinema. This year’s ceremony attracted 3.8 million viewers from the broadcasts on BBC in the UK and Britbox in the U.S. and Australia, and the event promises to go even broader this year as more international network partnerships are expected to be announced.
Reflecting on his first time hosting the BAFTAs, Tennant said his strategy was one of steady stewardship rather than comedic shtick. Speaking to Variety earlier this year, he said, “Not being a comic, my job is to just hold it all together.” He also reflected on lessons learned from other awards shows, such as the 2023 Golden Globes. “Don’t diss Tay Tay, I think is the lesson to be learned,” he quipped. “I live in a house of Taylor Swift fans, so I know better.”
The ceremony for the awards will host some of the most impressive films, as round one of voting started on December 6. More than 220 feature titles have been entered, which led to the unveiling of longlists on January 3, followed by the nominations announcement on January 15.
As a film aficionado awaits the show, Tennant’s return as host has only added to the excitement. His ability to blend charm, intelligence, and humor singularly ensures that the ceremony will be an event to cherish cinematic excellence.
The BAFTA Film Awards honor the best in both British and world cinema through its tribute to artistry and ingenuity defining the industry as a whole. The show for the year 2025 with Tennant set to be its host promises more unforgettable fun, recognition, and celebration of arts.