In a significant shift for British television, the BBC has confirmed that Graham Norton will not return to host their BAFTA Television Awards coverage, ending an impressive 18-year partnership with the beloved presenter.
End of an Era for Award Show Coverage
The corporation announced it would be "taking the coverage in a different direction" for the 2025 ceremony, signalling a complete overhaul of their approach to broadcasting one of the industry's most prestigious events.
Norton, who has become synonymous with the BBC's BAFTA coverage since 2007, expressed his gratitude for the long-standing partnership, stating: "I'll miss being part of the BAFTA TV Awards, but I'm delighted to leave it in the safe hands of the brilliant BAFTA production team."
A New Chapter for Broadcasting
The decision comes as BAFTA prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary next year, with the organisation confirming it will produce its own broadcast for the first time. This move represents a fundamental change in how the awards will reach audiences across the UK.
A BBC spokesperson acknowledged Norton's substantial contribution, telling MailOnline: "We are incredibly grateful to Graham Norton and his team for their brilliant work broadcasting the BAFTA Television Awards over many years."
What's Next for the BAFTAs?
BAFTA has confirmed that the 2025 Television Awards will air on BBC One and iPlayer, though the format and presenting team remain undisclosed. The organisation emphasised its commitment to delivering "an unmissable night for audiences" while celebrating British television excellence.
This development follows recent changes to the BAFTA film awards coverage, which moved from BBC to ITV, suggesting a broader transformation in how award ceremonies are broadcast in the UK.
As the television industry adapts to changing viewer habits and production models, this decision marks a pivotal moment in British broadcasting history, closing one chapter while opening another for both the BBC and BAFTA.
