The BRIT Awards [1] is set to return for its 42nd instalment next year, taking place on 8 Feb 2022, and some exciting names have been announced for the upcoming lineup. Comedian Mo Gilligan will be next year's host, alongside Maya Jama [2] and Radio 1's Clara Amfo [3] who will be handling the show's presenting duties.
Of the news, Mo Gilligan said that "It's an absolute privilege to host the 2022 BRIT Awards. I'm truly honoured to be asked. We're already in the extensive planning stages and all I can say is, I promise we're going to give it all we've got to create an incredible night for music fans everywhere. Let's go!" Gilligan also re-shared a tweet that he wrote back in 2013 [4], saying "I need to host the MOBOs [5] or the BRIT Awards" and adding "Ok it didn't happen in 2013 but I definitely put it out there into the universe. #lawofattraction" The change in host feels much needed after Jack Whitehall's reign, and for a number of reasons it feels like the next iteration of the ceremony will be a very different one.
Clara Amfo also shared her thoughts, adding that "It is such an honour and pleasure to be part of the BRITs presenting team for 2022. The spirit of celebration from the artists to the viewers is really special and I'm so excited for everyone to see more memories being made on the red carpet and stage in February!" Along with Amfo, Jama also said that "I am so excited to be back on presenting duties for the BRITs 2022! I remember watching the show growing up and still can't quite believe I get to be a part of it. The BRITs Are Coming TV special on ITV has always been one of my favourite shows, it's such a big celebration, everyone is on top form and I love seeing so many of my favourite people within the music industry come together for such an incredible night."
Alongside the news comes the announcement of four new genre awards: Alternative/Rock Act, Hip-Hop/Grime/Rap Act, Dance Act, and Pop/R'n'B Act. The ceremony will also step away from gendered labels this year, combining its previous female and male artist categories into one all-new British and International Artist of the Year award category.
The 2022 BRIT Awards will take place on 8 Feb. 2022.