Chris O'Dowd to host BIFAs

LONDON -- Irish actor and comedian Chris O'Dowd will host this years British Independent Film Honours ceremony, which happens 12 ,. 4 at London's Old Billingsgate. O'Dowd, who first made his breakthrough with U.K. audiences in Funnel 4's sitcom "The IT Crowd," has become an worldwide star from his role in "Bridesmaids." His other film credits include "Dinner for Schmucks," "Gulliver's Travels" and "The Boat That Rocked." He'll next are available in Judd Apatow's "That Is 40." "It's a ceremony which treasures innovation, elegance and class and so i am humbled they have selected several who so clearly lacks this stuff,Inch O'Dowd stated. Actor James Nesbitt, who situated the last six BIFA occasions, has converted into a patron in the event. Producer Andrew Eaton is proven as chairman from the year's jury, which will choose the individuals who win across 18 groups. The important thing nominees include "We Must Discuss Kevin," "Tyrannosaur," "Mess Tailor Soldier Spy," "Shame," "Senna," "The Kill List" and "Submarine." Other jury people include Gemma Arterton, David Thewlis, Ruth Wilson, Debs Gardner-Paterson, Josh Appignanesi, Lucy Bevan, Edith Bowman, Mike Goodridge, Neil Lamont, Ernest Mawle, Mary McCartney, Molly Nyman, Tracey Seaward, Charles Steel and Justine Wright. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com