Jake Bhardwaj to Host 2026 British Podcast Awards
The British Podcast Awards has announced that comedian, actor, and podcaster Jake Bhardwaj will host this year’s prestigious ceremony. The milestone tenth edition of the awards takes place on Thursday, October 1st, 2026 at Indigo at The O2 in London, celebrating excellence across 29 categories and over 200 nominations in the thriving podcast industry.
Who Is Jake Bhardwaj?
Bhardwaj is one of the UK’s most sought-after names in comedy and podcasting. He co-hosts critically acclaimed podcasts including Joe Marler Will See You Now and The Pub Quiz Pod alongside fellow comedian Liam Shaw. Beyond audio, Jake has built an impressive career spanning production, writing, and on-screen talent.
His late-night variety show, Not Another Quiz Night, became a cult hit at the Edinburgh and Brighton Fringe Festivals, with successful London runs at Clapham Grand and Soho Theatre. As an actor, Jake recently appeared in the BBC One sitcom Ann Droid and currently hosts the pub quiz segment on Joe Lycett’s Channel 4 show, The Lycett Arms.
Before establishing himself as a performer and podcaster, Bhardwaj spent nearly a decade producing some of the UK’s most prominent comedy programming, including Channel 4’s The Last Leg and Late Night Lycett—experience that gives him unique insight into the creative industries he’ll be celebrating.
A Milestone Celebration for Podcasting
The 2026 ceremony marks a significant milestone for the British Podcast Awards, which have grown to become a cornerstone event for the podcast community. The awards span 29 categories, recognizing everything from Best Interview Podcast to Best Host, alongside Spotify’s Listener’s Choice Award.
Unlike many industry awards that favor large studios, the British Podcast Awards champion both the talent in front of the microphone and the professionals behind it. Whether you’re part of a major production company or a solo creator working independently, the awards provide recognition for the diverse voices and formats that define modern podcasting.
“What an honour to be hosting this year’s British Podcast Awards and getting to celebrate the brilliantly creative people who make this industry so bloody brilliant. In a room full of people who talk for a living, I’m anticipating a very fun but very noisy evening,” said Jake Bhardwaj.
Tickets Now Available
Podcast professionals, creators, and industry enthusiasts can secure their place at this year’s ceremony. Tickets are on sale now, and the event promises to be one of the year’s most significant gatherings for the podcasting community.
For those looking to nominate their work or learn more about the awards, visit the official British Podcast Awards website.
Why This Matters for Podcast Professionals
The British Podcast Awards represent more than just a trophy ceremony—they’re a platform for industry recognition that elevates the medium as a whole. For producers, editors, audio engineers, and hosts working through platforms like Podwires, these awards highlight the caliber of professional talent that makes modern podcasting possible.
With Jake Bhardwaj hosting, expect an evening that celebrates both the artistry and the business acumen required to succeed in podcasting today. His background producing major television comedy shows, combined with his active role as a podcaster himself, positions him as an ideal ambassador for an industry that continues to evolve and attract top creative talent.
Source: Podwires Newsletter
