Step up, as Alan Cumming, the acclaimed Scottish actor-writer-presenter, prepares to take the helm of the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards. This grand event, once again held at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London, is a night to remember for the film industry, celebrating the finest on-screen and off-screen talents from around the globe. Tune in on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Sunday, February 22, as the ceremony airs live.
Taking over from the 2024 and 2025 host David Tennant, Cumming brings his unparalleled charm and versatility to the stage. With a career spanning television, film, and theater, he is renowned for his Tony and Olivier Award-winning performance in Cabaret and his Golden Globe-winning role in The Good Wife. More recently, he has captivated audiences worldwide as host and producer of The Traitors U.S., earning him four Emmys and two Critics’ Choice awards.
"How thrilling to return to the BAFTA fold," began Cumming, "this time as host of the EE BAFTA Film Awards, a night unlike any other where we celebrate and honor creativity and craftsmanship, and hopefully have a laugh and create some mischief along the way!"
Emma Baehr, executive director of awards and content at BAFTA, shared her excitement: "With his sharp wit, warmth, and vibrant energy, we are beyond thrilled that Alan Cumming will be hosting this year's EE BAFTA Film Awards. As we honor the outstanding talent in film that brings stories to life on screen, we know that Alan will give us an unforgettable night full of laughter, magic, and plenty of surprises – and maybe even some extraordinary outfits!"
The EE BAFTA Film Awards encompass 25 competitive categories, decided by BAFTA voting members. BAFTA continues to represent the U.K.'s largest film, games, and TV voting body with almost 14,000 creative practitioners working across the screen industries from all corners of the U.K. and internationally. Round one of voting for the BAFTA Film Awards opened on December 5th. The longlists for the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards will be unveiled on January 9th, with nominations following on January 27th. The EE Rising Star Award, the only category voted for by the public, will announce its nominees on January 14th, with the winner revealed at the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards on Sunday, February 22nd.
