David Tennant has revealed he is steering clear of jokes that could make nominees uncomfortable as he prepares to host the 2024 BAFTA Film Awards.
Reflecting on last year’s ceremony, the actor admitted that a quip about Cate Blanchett didn’t land as intended, leaving the star visibly unimpressed.
Speaking to Radio Times, Tennant explained: “The BAFTAs are supposed to be kind. Last year we weren’t trying to roast people, but there was a joke about Cate Blanchett, and she looked a little bit annoyed, a little bit p***ed off.
“And I remember going, ‘Oh God, no. I think you’re brilliant. I was just trying to be witty and make a point about how you’ve got lots of prizes, and we love you.’”
The Doctor Who star emphasised that his goal is to celebrate the industry rather than poke fun at attendees. “I think if I’ve learned anything, it’s probably that I’m not interested in picking fights or making anyone feel in any way uncomfortable. If I have a style, it’s only that.”
Last year, the stage star lightly roasted Blanchett, who was sat next to the Prince of Wales, during his opening monologue.
When discussing the possible award winners on the night, he shared: “I always thought, like the seat planner would know and they'd put winners at the front, at the end of an aisle but no, they've got hidden cameras, they can pick you up anywhere so if you've got to scramble and climb over Cate Blanchett to get your hands on an award, that is what you do.”
He added with a smile: “It's a metaphor for the acting industry generally” before the audience laughed.
Tennant’s approach contrasts with that of other awards show hosts who have embraced more provocative humour. While some ceremonies, like the Golden Globes, have leaned into roasting Hollywood’s elite, Tennant is making it clear that BAFTA night should be an evening of celebration rather than discomfort.
The Scottish actor also shared his perspective on the broader significance of awards.
While acknowledging their professional importance, he dismissed the notion that they define an artist’s career. He told the outlet: “Ultimately, they don’t matter. It’s all a fabricated nonsense, and either you do work that you are proud of, or you don’t.
He added: “From an industry point of view, they’re about generating attention to projects so that more people watch them, which is why you make anything – so that it connects with people, and they appreciate it.
“And then people who win get to make more things. They mean things professionally to people, but I don’t suppose they change their life. Still, they’re a lovely thing to receive – and it’s nicer to win one than to not…”
Read the full interview in this week’s Radio Times out now
