The British Academy Film Awards will be without its most recognisable MC this year, as Stephen Fry has decided to step away from the hosting gig after 12 years.
TV personality and actor Fry first hosted the awards ceremony in 2001 and has hosted every year since, other than during an absence between 2007 and 2011, when Jonathan Ross stepped into the role.
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Fry’s gentle wit and avuncular presence has been a part of the televised ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall for years.
In a statement announcing his resignation, Fry said every ceremony he has presented has “a place in my memory”.
He added: “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. But, after so long a time, I felt it only right to stand down and let others take the BAFTAs on to new heights and greater glories. What fun it will be to watch BAFTA 2018 without my heart hammering, mouth drying and knees trembling.”
The new BAFTAs host will be revealed alongside this year’s nominees on January 9th, ahead of the awards ceremony on February 18th.