Yahoo News BAFTA TV Awards going ahead behind closed doors
Stars will get their shot at BAFTA glory despite the coronavirus pandemic, as it has been revealed that this year’s TV Awards will go ahead.
The annual ceremony was originally scheduled for this spring but was postponed due to the outbreak.
But BAFTA has now confirmed that it is back on the cards and will take place behind closed doors on July 31, with Richard Ayoade on host duty.
Mark your diaries! 🗓 Join us for the #VirginMediaBAFTAs on @BBCOne on 31 July! Hosted for the first time by @RichardAyoade, who said “I am as surprised as you are that this is still going ahead." https://t.co/RbYnRUele4
— BAFTA (@BAFTA) May 29, 2020
While it usually sees a red carpet packed with A-listers in their finery, this year’s event will be a closed studio, socially distanced show. Winners will be accepting their awards virtually.
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The IT Crowd’s Ayoade, who is hosting for the first time, joked: “I am as surprised as you are that this is still going ahead.”
The British Academy Television Craft Awards - which recognise those behind the scenes of our favourite programmes - have also been rescheduled and will take place on July 17, with Stephen Mangan hosting.
The actor and comedian said he was thrilled to be taking part and would definitely dress for the occasion.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be hosting the BAFTA Craft Awards again - handing out our industry’s highest accolades to the people who make this country’s television world-leading,” he said.
“The format might have to change a little this year but nothing will stop me putting on black tie and celebrating their success.”
BAFTA chief executive Amanda Berry OBE said she was proud to be delivering the awards shows “during this difficult time”.
“We want to celebrate and reward the talented individuals who make up the television industry, both behind and in-front of the camera, many of whom have continued to entertain and inform the nation in recent weeks,” she added.
Berry said both events were “set to be great entertainment”.
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The BAFTA TV Awards will take place on July 31 and will be broadcast on BBC One that evening.
The TV Craft Awards will take place on July 17 and will be broadcast through the Bafta social channels.
