Scottish actor Alan Cumming has been announced as the host of the 2026 Bafta Film Awards, succeeding David Tennant. Cumming, who presented this year's Bafta TV Awards, will take the stage at the Royal Festival Hall on 22 February.
Cumming expressed excitement at being 'back in the Bafta fold' for what he called a night to celebrate creativity and craftsmanship, with a promise of 'a laugh and some mischief'. Emma Baehr, Bafta's executive director of awards and content, praised his 'sharp wit, warmth and vibrant energy'.
The actor's career spans stage and screen, earning him a Bafta, multiple Emmys, two Tonys and an Olivier award. He also serves as artistic director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
The longlists for the awards will be released on 9 January, with nominations on 27 January. Bafta has made strides in diversity following the #BaftasSoWhite controversy, achieving targets for minority ethnic, disabled and LGBT+ membership, though women currently make up 43% of members (51% among new joiners since 2020).
The Baftas come after the Golden Globes (11 January) and before the Oscars (15 March). In 2025, Conclave won best picture. Films expected in contention for 2026 include Hamnet, Sinners and Marty Supreme.
