Ross returns with Comedy Awards

ITV has announced that Jonathan Ross will host the 2009 British Comedy Awards which will be broadcast on ITV1 later this year.

Celebrating its 20th year, Britain’s best-loved comedy awards ceremony enjoys a renowned reputation for providing riotous and unpredictable viewing in the presence of an international array of the biggest names in entertainment, showcasing some of the most outrageous, successful and hilarious comedy moments of the year.

Jonathan says ‘I’m delighted – it’s the most prestigious awards show in the world. Obama may have a Nobel Prize. But he’s not even in the running for Best Entertainment personality. It’s that prestigious.’

ITV’s Director of Entertainment and Comedy Elaine Bedell says ‘The British Comedy Awards has become one of television’s most talked-about annual events, and hosting it has to be one of television’s toughest gigs.  I’m very glad Jonathan is back at the helm.’

Last year’s winners included Harry Hill’s TV Burp for Best Comedy Entertainment Programme, Gavin and Stacey for Best TV Comedy, Ricky Gervais for Best TV Comedy Actor and Sharon Horgan for Best TV Comedy Actress.  Jasper Carrott was awarded a British Comedy Lifetime Achievement Award.

This year’s Awards and their broadcast will be sponsored by Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer.  They will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITV2 in December 2009.