Comic won't be presenting in 2024

Mo Gilligan has ruled himself out of hosting the 2024 Brit Awards, after two years in the job.  

The comedian said he was stepping down to concentrate on his stand-up career. 

Writing on Instagram, he said: ‘I’ve had the most incredible time working on The Brits but unfortunately as I'll be in the US for my first World Tour next spring, I'm sorry to say that I'll be stepping down from hosting duties for 2024 and handing over the baton.

'It's been phenomenal to work on this iconic event. I've loved getting to know all the remarkable people who run The Brit Trust and the outstanding Brit School'The tireless work you do to improve lives through the power of music and the creative arts is sensational and I promise to continue supporting wherever I can.

'Thank you to ITV or making a young man's dream come true and to all the brilliant performers, guests, production team and most importantly, the viewers at home for all your amazing support. It's been an honour. See you on tour.’

Next year’s Brit awards will take place at The O2 in London on Saturday March 2

Gilligan has a number of dates in the US from Feb 26 to March 30 – although his currently announced schedule has a two-week gap either side of the awards date.

But his Instagram page also promised a 'huge announcement' next week with an emoji of the US flag.

An average of 3.3million watched this year’s Brit Awards show on ITV1, peaking at just under 4million. it was especially popular with 16-34 year olds.

However some viewers and professional reviewers criticised Gilligan in his role – especially when he introduced Lewis Capaldi as ‘Sam Capaldi’.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Michael Horgan said: ‘He needed a tighter script with more bite and less "Oi oi!" shouting. Endless references to alcohol weren’t just try-hard but jarred with the teen demographic… I never imagined the phrase "Bring back James Corden" would cross my mind, but somehow it did.’

Published: 27 Nov 2023