British comedian and entertainer Jack Whitehall will take to the BRIT Awards stage as host for the fifth time. Known for his sharp humour and memorable interactions, Whitehall’s return is sure to bring some iconic moments.
The BRIT Awards, or BRITs, are the UK’s most prestigious music awards. Launched in 1977 by the British Phonographic Industry’s (BPI), the event was originally conceived to showcase the growing global success of British music.
Since then, it has evolved to a glamorous, televised event that highlights some of the biggest names in music, including live performances by top artists to showcase new music or special collaborations.
The awards are decided by a voting academy that includes artists, producers, and industry professionals, and stretch across a variety of categories, honouring both UK-based and international talent.
Some of the key categories include: Mastercard British Album of the Year, British Single of the Year, British Artist of the Year, International Artist of the Year, and Critics’ Choice Award.
Already with a win under his belt is Myles Smith, who was announced as the BRITs Rising Star in December 2024.
Myles Smith wins #BRITs Rising Star Award for 2025https://t.co/BoQ4rfD8k5
— Hits Radio (@hitsradiouk) December 6, 2024
The BRIT Awards have consistently adapted to reflect shifts in the music landscape, adding categories such as Streaming and Global Success to acknowledge changes to the industry. Recent years have also seen increased efforts to promote diversity and inclusion across nominations and winners, signaling a commitment to represent the breadth of talent within the industry.
However, the award show is famous not only for their celebration of music but also for delivering unforgettable moments, both dramatic and controversial. Two stand out moments are Geri Halliwell’s famous Union Jack mini dress which symbolised 1990s ‘Cool Britannia’ and Michael Jackson’s dramatic performance of ‘Earth Song’ resulting in Jarvis Cocker of Pulp storming the stage.
More recent examples have taken on a more political tone with Dave’s legendary performance of ‘Black’, adding a new verse that called out the UK government for its handling of the Grenfell Tower tragedy and criticised then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The following year, after winning the British Female Solo Artist Award, Dua Lipa used her acceptance to advocate for a pay rise for frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. These moments demonstrate the BRITs’ ability to blend music, culture, and social commentary, ensuring its place as one of the biggest events in the industry.
The @BRITs are coming…and @jackwhitehall is back, baby! #BRITS https://t.co/Ph7Y8tTBxU — Official Charts (@officialcharts) January 18, 2025
Jack Whitehall has proven himself as a standout host of the BRIT Awards, having led the ceremony from 2018 to 2021. Hosting is among his many specialties, which also include stand-up comedy, television and film, highlighting him as one of the UK’s most versatile entertainers.
Earning praise for his sharp wit and engaging interactions, he has created some of the most unforgettable and hilarious moments in BRITs history including joking that Stormzy had “killed the Prime Minister”, roasting Lewis Capaldi during the 2020 show, and his infamous drinking game with Lizzo which went viral.
Speaking about his fifth time hosting, Whitehall said: “They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder, and that is absolutely the case with The BRIT Awards – it is my favourite night of the year, and I’m delighted to be invited back to host in 2025.”
Also announced this week were the Brits Week 2025 performers. The series of live gigs across the UK in support of charity War Child will include performances from Rachel Chinouriri, SOFT PLAY, Clean Bandit, and Tom Walker.
With Jack Whitehall leading the night, the 2025 BRIT Awards promise to deliver more historic moments. For British artists, winning a BRIT remains a career-defining milestone, while for fans, the event is a celebration of music’s creativity and diversity.
As we count down to 1 March, anticipation builds for what this year’s ceremony has in store.
