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 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 500 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.
2014 represents the 25th year of show. 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
The British Comedy Academy
*Except 2008 when Angus Deayton filled
in for Jonathan at the last minute, after he and Russell Brand got
told off by the BBC!
