2020 Virtual Ceremony Host – Patrick Kielty

Northern Irish comedian and presenter Patrick Kielty is one of the most recognisable names on TV having appeared on everything from prime-time celebrity shows to late night standup and topical panel shows.

Starting his comedy career whilst still a student at Queen’s University, Belfast, Paddy started (and compered) his own night at the city’s famous Empire club which spawned a one-off BBC television special The Empire Laughs Back, and which won him a Royal Television Society award for best regional presenter.

Paddy’s sardonic observations on life, Ireland, drinking, celebrities and politics have appeared on Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You and many other panel shows. Whilst he has also hosted programmes as diverse as Channel 4’s topical show Stand Up For The Week and BBC One’s Fame Academy, Celebrity Love Island and Sport Relief, the National Lottery Live and the Big Breakfast.

After his time presenting, Paddy returned to standup. Having previously appeared at Belfast’s Grand Opera House alongside Lenny Henry for Comic Relief, he sold out the venue for his solo return which was later released on DVD. Alongside his live and TV appearance, Paddy frequently appears on Radio 2 having stood in for Alan Carr, Steve Wright, Jonathan Ross and Simon Mayo on the station.