The British Academy of Film and Television Arts has confirmed that the multi-award-winning actor and presenter Alan Cumming will take centre stage as the host of the EE BAFTA Film Awards in 2026. The prestigious ceremony is scheduled for 22 February 2026 at London's iconic Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall.
A New Host for a Glittering Night
Cumming, 60, steps into the role following a successful two-year tenure by Doctor Who star David Tennant, who himself succeeded Richard E. Grant. The decision comes after Cumming impressed BAFTA bosses with his 'sharp wit and vibrant energy' while hosting the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards earlier this year. The organisation expressed its delight, anticipating an evening filled with his signature charm and mischief.
The announcement was made on BAFTA's official Instagram, featuring a snap of Cumming holding the academy's famous golden mask trophy. In the image, he sported a burgundy red blazer over a black shirt, complemented by a striking shade of purple nail polish.
A Celebrated Career Takes the BAFTA Stage
Alan Cumming brings a formidable reputation to the hosting duties. He is a Tony and Olivier Award winner for his performance in Cabaret, a Golden Globe recipient for The Good Wife, and an Emmy-winning executive producer. More recently, he has captivated global audiences as the host and producer of The Traitors US, a role that has earned him four additional Emmys and two Critics' Choice awards.
Speaking about his new role, Cumming said: 'How exciting to be back in the BAFTA fold, this time hosting the EE BAFTA Film Awards, a night like no other when we celebrate and honour creativity and craftsmanship - and also hopefully have a laugh and create some mischief as we do so!'
Emma Baehr, Executive Director of Awards & Content at BAFTA, added: 'With his sharp wit, warmth and vibrant energy, we are beyond excited that Alan Cumming will be hosting this year's EE BAFTA Film Awards. As we honour the outstanding talent in film... we know that Alan will give us an unforgettable night full of laughter, magic and plenty of surprises, and maybe some extraordinary outfits!'
Viewer Reach and Award Timeline
The EE BAFTA Film Awards represent a major television event. The February 2025 ceremony attracted an average of 3 million viewers on BBC One, alongside a staggering 64 million video views across BAFTA's social platforms. The 2026 show will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK, and on Britbox in the US and Australia.
The awards encompass 25 competitive categories, voted on by BAFTA's nearly 14,000-strong membership of creative professionals. The voting process is already underway, with key dates as follows:
- Longlists announced: 9 January 2026
- Nominations announced: 27 January 2026
- EE Rising Star Award nominees (public vote): 14 January 2026
The winner of the public-voted EE Rising Star Award will be revealed during the live ceremony on 22 February.
Cumming follows in the footsteps of David Tennant, who was widely praised for his 2025 hosting performance. Tennant's turn featured three outfit changes—including a kilt—a musical opening, and a memorable political quip, setting a high bar for entertainment that Cumming is now poised to meet with his own unique flair.
