Roman Kemp issues four-word statement as he makes feelings clear on Brits axe amid Jack Whitehall replacement
Roman Kemp has spoken out after Jack Whitehall was announced as the host of the 2025 Brit Awards, marking his return to the ceremony after a three-year absence.
The comedian will helm the prestigious music awards show for a fifth time, having previously presented from 2018 to 2021.
“They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder, and that is absolutely the case with the Brit Awards,” Whitehall said of his return to hosting duties.
The stand-up comic added: “It is my favourite night of the year, and I am delighted to be invited back to host in 2025.”
The announcement was made via the Brit Awards’ official social media channels, with organisers stating: “Don’t call it a comeback. @jackwhitehall returns to host BRITs 2025.”
Since Whitehall’s departure in 2021, the Brit Awards has seen several different hosts take the helm. Mo Gilligan presented the ceremony for two consecutive years in 2022 and 2023 while last year’s show was fronted by a presenting trio consisting of Clara Amfo, Maya Jama, and Kemp.
Reports emerged earlier this month claiming Kemp had been informed of his “axe” from the Brits prior to confirmation of Whitehall’s return.
An insider told the Daily Mail at the time: “Roman has been told he isn’t hosting this year. He loved it but accepts that these things change. He was flattered to be chosen to do it last year but he’s a pro and gets it.”
Kemp, himself, has now broken his silence on Whitehall replacing him, Amfo, and Jama, replying to the announcement on Instagram with the comment: “Return of the King.” (sic)
Whitehall’s previous four-year stint as host from 2018 to 2021 established him as a familiar face at the ceremony.
Damian Christian, Chair of the Brit Committee for 2025, praised Whitehall’s hosting abilities, saying: “Jack is a true professional who makes one of the toughest gigs on TV look effortless. His cutting wit will keep everyone on their toes, while his charm and humour will make the audience at home feel closer to the awards.”
The 2025 Brit Awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, March 1 at London’s O2 Arena.
Whitehall, who is also known for his roles in Fresh Meat and Bad Education, brings significant television experience to the role.
The comedian has maintained a busy career in recent years, including writing and starring in the Bad Education reunion special in 2022.
He recently completed his latest stand-up tour, Settle Down, which ran from 2023 to 2024.
The Brit Awards has already announced some early details for the 2025 ceremony, including Myles Smith as the recipient of the Rising Star prize.
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The full list of nominations is yet to be revealed, though organisers have confirmed there will be 16 award categories.
A new trophy design has also been created for this year’s ceremony by Gabriel Moses.