Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

BAFTAs 2018: Stephen Fry steps down from hosting duties

The comedian has hosted the prestigious ceremony a total of 12 times since 2001

Clarisse Loughrey
Friday 05 January 2018 10:39 EST
Comments
Stephen Fry
Stephen Fry (Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Stephen Fry will step down as host of the BAFTA Film Awards.

The comedian has played emcee to the prestigious ceremony for 12 years, first stepping on stage in 2001 to help hand over to Gladiator the award for Best Film, before taking a break between 2007-11.

In a statement, Fry said it was ”only right to stand down and let others take the BAFTAs on to new heights and greater glories”. He added: “What fun it will be to watch BAFTA 2018 without my heart hammering, mouth drying and knees trembling.”

“Every one of the 12 BAFTA Film Award ceremonies that I had the privilege of hosting has a place in my memory,” he continued. “The mixture of glamour, glory, drama and – occasionally – embarrassment and hiccup holds a unique place in the British film calendar.

“Over the last two decades I have especially loved watching the emergence of new young film talent behind and in front of the camera.”


During Fry's break from hosting duties, Jonathan Ross stepped in to take up the mantle. A new host for the ceremony will be revealed alongside the nominations on Tuesday, 9 January.

The BAFTA ceremony will take place 18 February.

Follow Independent Culture on Facebook for all the latest on Film, TV, Music, and more.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in