Dermot O’Leary and Emma Willis have been unveiled as the hosts for this year’s BRIT Awards.
The pair replace original host Michael Bublé, who is now unable to present the show following his young child’s cancer diagnosis.
BRITs chairman and chairman of Sony Music, Jason Iley, said: “We are delighted to announce the combination of Dermot and Emma who are stepping up as hosts. They are currently the most in demand presenters in the UK, with a huge passion for music, and to get the both of them is very exciting for us. Our thoughts go out to Michael and his family. We would love to see him on our stage in the future.”
O’Leary echoed Iley’s sentiments: “Firstly, my immediate thoughts and prayers are with Michael and his family at such a difficult time. Michael is an effortless showman, so those patent shoes will not be easy to fill, but it's an honour to be asked to step in with Emma to host the BRITs.
“The BRITs is an iconic show that I've watched and attended many times. It's a holy grail for a broadcaster, and I'm really looking forward to working with Emma, who I'm a big fan of, and celebrating a brilliant year of British music.”
Willis added: : "Every part of me sends so much love and all the well wishes in the world to Michael and his family at such a difficult time. I'm a huge fan of his and I would have relished watching him present the BRITs. I know everyone involved wants to make the best show possible and I hope we do him proud.
“I had an awesome time presenting the nominations show this year and I am delighted to be asked back for the main event. To present the BRITs is an honour but to be doing it alongside one of my absolute favourites, Mr Dermot O'Leary is just bonkers. Bring on the BRITs 2017."
Among the acts confirmed to perform at the 2017 BRITs are Robbie Williams, Little Mix, The 1975 and Emeli Sandé with more names to be announced in the coming weeks.
You can view the full list of finalists for this year’s BRITs here.
