Dermot O'Leary and Emma Willis have confirmed they will co-host this year's BRIT Awards, after Michael Buble pulled out to care for his three-year-old son, who is battling cancer. The X Factor presenter and Celebrity Big Brother host will join forces to front the prestigious music ceremony, which takes place at London's The O2 on February 22.
Sharing his delight at the appointment, Dermot reiterated he was sad it was under such heartbreaking circumstances. He commented: "Firstly, my immediate thoughts and prayers are with Michael and his family at such a difficult time. Michael is an effortless show man, so those patent shoes will not be easy to fill, but it's an honour to be asked to step in with Emma to host the BRITs.
Dermot O'Leary and Emma Willis confirmed as this year's BRIT Awards hosts
"The BRITs is an iconic show that I've watched and attended many times. It's a holy grail for a broadcaster, and I'm really looking forward to working with Emma, who I'm a big fan of, and celebrating a brilliant year of British music."
Emma, 40, added: "Every part of me sends so much love and all the well wishes in the world to Michael and his family at such a difficult time. I'm a huge fan of his and I would have relished watching him present the BRITs. I know everyone involved wants to make the best show possible and I hope we do him proud. I had an awesome time presenting the nominations show this year and I am delighted to be asked back for the main event."
"It's an honour to be asked to step in with Emma to host the BRITs," said Dermot
In November, Michael and his wife Luisiana Lopilato made the announcement that their son Noah is suffering from cancer. At the time, the Canadian singer revealed he was going to step away from the limelight to concentrate on his little boy’s health.
"Luisana and I have put our careers on hold in order to devote all our time and attention to helping Noah get well," he shared. "At this difficult time, we ask only for your prayers and respect for our privacy. We have a long journey in front of us and hope that with the support of family, friends and fans around the world, we will win this battle, God willing."
Over the past couple of years the awards show has been presented by Ant and Dec and James Corden. Previous hosts include Cat Deeley, Davina McCall, Chris Evans and Kylie Minogue. This year's music bonanza will see entertainment from the likes of Robbie Williams, Little Mix, The 1975 and Emeli Sandé.
The BRITs are releasing a compilation album with a whopping 63 tracks, featuring some of the biggest songs of the year. From The Weeknd to Zara Larsson, Little Mix and Sia - out on Feb 17th.