The British Comedy Awards has been the premier accolade for all
comedy programmes, performers and producers across the UK
television industry since 1990.
The concept for the Awards was originally devised and produced
by British TV legend, Michael Hurll to promote homegrown comedy
talent. The original show was presented by Michael Parkinson and
winners included VICTORIA WOOD as Best Live Stand-up, PAULINE
QUIRKE as Best TV Comedy Newcomer, and DROP THE DEAD DONKEY as the
Best New TV Comedy. Other winners included RUSS ABBOTT, CLIVE JAMES
& ROWAN ATKINSON.
Since then the Awards have been presented by Jonathan Ross* and
as a result they have increasingly grown a reputation for being
outrageous and unpredictable. Unlike most awards events which are
formal and reverent occasions, Jonathan's presence has evolved the
ceremony into one of the funniest shows on television in its own
right. With comic guests turning presentations and acceptance
speeches into classic TV moments.
Take a look at some by visiting our Photo Galleries and YouTube
links on this site for an ever increasing library of photos &
hilarious clips from the show's archives.
After 20 years of broadcasting on ITV, the show moved to Channel
4 for the 2010 ceremony, on Saturday January 22nd, 2011.
This 21st year was special due to a 'grand redesign' of
the show's image… with a new venue, set, logo and stunning new
award - the heaviest award any UK performer could ever win!! Unlike
anyone in the industry, the award is two-faced! With the
traditional playing cards symbol on one side, and the new Joker
icon and Union Flag on the other.
2010 also saw the creation of the BRITISH COMEDY
ACADEMY, a collective of almost 300 individuals which includes
all of the UK's most talented & successful comedy performers,
agents, writers and producers. This executive body was formed to
share ideas and influence for generating new initiatives to support
and promote British comedy from the grass roots up. And
importantly, the Academy membership also drives our Awards voting
process.
After 21 years, the British Comedy Awards may be seen as growing
up and becoming an important institution for the broader British
comedy industry. But it will always keep its unique sense of humour
and mischief!
Mike Brosnan
Executive Producer, The British Comedy Awards
*Except 2008 when Angus Deayton filled in for Jonathan at the
last minute, after he and Russell Brand got told off by the
BBC!