BAFTA Television Craft Awards 2020: Stephen Mangan impersonates Holly and Phil in digital ceremony

For the first time ever, this year’s BAFTA Television Craft Awards take place as a digital-only ceremony after the coronavirus pandemic scuppered plans for the original event.

However, the changes haven’t stopped host Stephen Mangan from bringing the laughs as he and fellow comedian Rachel Parris hilariously impersonate This Morning presenters Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby.

In stills of their opening monologue released ahead of Friday’s ceremony, the duo also parody Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin from the hit Netflix show Tiger King.

In one image, Stephen, 52, and Rachel, 36, jokingly dress as bubbly This Morning hosts Phil and Holly, with Stephen perfecting Phil’s silver fox look with a grey wig.

While Rachel pulls a shocked impression as she rocks Holly’s signature sleek blonde tresses.

Not exempt from the duo’s antics are Tiger King’s Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin.

In further promo snaps for the awards, Stephen sports Joe’s distinctive mullet, loud shirt and horseshoe moustache, and not forgetting of course a huge fake tiger draped over him.

Rachel meanwhile mocks big cat activist Carole in a flowing blonde wig, floral crown and animal print top.

TV’s Suranne Jones is imitated next, with Rachel donning Suranne’s Anne Lister costume from the BBC drama Gentleman Jack costume including her top hat and brunette curls.

While Stephen also takes the opportunity to dress up as a character from Peaky Blinders.

The fun and games comes as Stephen returns to host the awards for the ninth time, with this year of course being distinctly different from previous events.

The former Green Wing star presents the awards from a socially-distanced studio, with the ceremony streaming live on YouTube and Facebook while nominees accept their awards digitally.

With the lack of live audience, Stephen will steer through the awards with a number of comical sketches, joined on occasion by Rachel.

While the show will also feature music and celebrity guest presenters including Romesh Ranganathan, Richard Ayoade and Jessica Knappett.

Speaking about this year’s digital only ceremony, Stephen explained: ‘This year’s format has meant there’s more scope for sketches, so we’ve really gone to town.

‘I play several characters and sing this year. It may be very hard to tell they are all played by me (it won’t) but they are!’

He added: ‘The Baftas are a great chance to reflect on the past year in television and this year will be no different. There’s plenty to talk about!’ 

While Chief Executive at BAFTA,Amanda Berry OBE, said: ‘The last few months have presented a challenge to the television industry like no other, with many of the talented people who make the shows we love unable to work and worrying about their future. 

‘We’re delighted to recognise their achievements, and give those working behind-the-camera a moment in the spotlight to celebrate their incredible artistry. 

‘Our nominees represent the very best of British and international talent from across the industry and although the Awards may look different this year, we’re proud to be able to acknowledge and support such fantastic work.’

The Bafta TV Craft Awards air at 7pm on Friday on the Bafta YouTube channel and Bafta’s Facebook page.