Dermot O’Leary is rumoured to replace Michael Bublé as the host of this year’s BRITs, following reports that the singer has pulled out as a result of his young son’s cancer diagnosis.
Bublé was originally unveiled as the host of the 2017 BRITs back in October, before news of his son’s illness cast doubt over whether or not he would still be able to present the show.
Now, according to The Sun, show organisers are in talks with O’Leary to take over hosting duties in Bublé’s absence, while Emma Willis, who earlier this month hosted the televised nominations launch show, is also in the running.
A source told the newspaper: "Dermot is exactly what ITV want to host the Brits, a safe pair of hands. He has that wealth of experience, especially with live TV. He has been at the helm of The X Factor for a decade and has a solid awards background too, thanks to the National Television Awards. He is talking to producers but hasn't made a decision yet. Emma is also an option."
The nominations for the 2017 BRITs saw a number of UK grime acts shortlisted for many of the event’s major awards, after the show came under fire in 2016 for a perceived lack of diversity and urban music representation.
Up for British Male Solo Artist are Craig David, David Bowie, Kano, Michael Kiwanuka and Skepta, while Anohni, Ellie Goulding, Emeli Sandé, Lianne La Havas and Nao are nominated for British Female Solo Artists.
Meanwhile, battling it out for British Album Of The Year are The 1975 (I Like It When You Sleep For You Are Beautiful Yet So Unaware Of It), David Bowie (Blackstar), Kano (Made In The Manor), Michael Kiwanuka (Love & Hate) and Skepta (Konnichiwa).
You can view the nominees in full here.
