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Nick Mohammed has been named as the host for this year’s Olivier awards, which take place at the Royal Albert Hall in London next month.
The comedian, writer and actor, who recently found a new fanbase as a Celebrity Traitors finalist, will follow in the footsteps of his Ted Lasso co-star Hannah Waddingham, who presented the Oliviers in 2023 and 2024. Last year, they were co-hosted by Beverley Knight and Billy Porter. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the awards, which recognise achievements in theatre, dance and opera.
“To host the Oliviers in its 50th year is not only a dream come true but an absolute honour and privilege,” said Mohammed. “I love it not only for the breadth of theatrical talent it celebrates, but also for the extraordinary variety of live performances it showcases on the night itself. While I will try to remain in the wings during these, I can’t promise I won’t be singing along (in full voice). But at least I won’t be on roller skates this time.”
It was on roller skates (and in a sparkly dinner jacket) that Mohammed performed, in character as his squeaky-voiced alter ego Mr Swallow, at the 2024 Bafta awards. He also skated on stage in his show The Very Best and Worst of Mr Swallow.
Established in 1976, the Olivier awards are overseen by the Society of London Theatre. The winners are chosen by a team of industry figures, stage luminaries and theatre-loving members of the public. Nominations will be revealed on Thursday. Last month it was announced that special awards will be given to choreographer Wayne McGregor (outstanding contribution to dance) and soprano Danielle De Niese (outstanding contribution to opera). Industry recognition awards will go to children’s playwright David Wood; Betty Laine, founder of Laine Theatre Arts college; and Linda Tolhurst, stagedoor keeper at the National Theatre for almost half a century.
The Oliviers ceremony will take place on 12 April. Highlights will be broadcast that evening by the BBC, which is embroiled in the fallout from its recent telecast of the Bafta awards, which edited out some of Tourette syndrome activist John Davidson’s tics, but included him saying the N-word as Sinners actors Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo took to the stage. Alan Cumming, who presented the Baftas, said: “What should have been an evening celebrating creativity as well as diversity and inclusion turned into a trauma-triggering shitshow.”
