Actor Bill Nighy has been recognised as the best host at the British Podcast Awards, securing victory in a category that also featured nominations for prominent figures such as Louis Theroux, Katherine Ryan, and Lily Allen. The 76-year-old star, celebrated for his roles in major films including the Love Actually franchise, Living, and Underworld, is enjoying a successful second act as a podcaster.
Nighy’s accolade specifically honours his show Ill-Advised, described by organisers as an “irresistibly endearing series.” Marketed towards listeners who prefer staying indoors, the programme features the actor offering dry, wry counsel on life’s dilemmas while reflecting on music, books, and general living.
This win marks another high-profile recognition for Nighy in the audio space, following his receipt of the podcast of the year award at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards earlier this year.
The tenth edition of the British Podcast Awards, held on Thursday, saw several other notable successes across various genres. Pete Wicks claimed two statues for his series Man Made, which explores modern masculinity, taking home prizes for best interview podcast and best health and wellbeing podcast. Similarly, Sean Bean’s birdwatching documentary Get Birding secured dual wins for best lifestyle podcast and best video innovation.
The evening’s highest honour, best podcast overall, went to Hold or Fold by the Prison Radio Association. The series focuses on problem gambling and also won the award for best factual podcast. Meanwhile, audiences voted Hard Launch, hosted by YouTube personalities Dan and Phil, as the winner of the Listeners’ Choice award.
Other distinguished winners included Alan Carr and Lee Peart, who took home the prize for best food and drink podcast for their comedy and wine show Bottoms Up! Additional recognitions were awarded to series such as The Intelligence, produced by The Economist, and NewlyParents from JamPot Productions.
Wait, Sean Bean does birdwatching? I need to listen to that immediately. Nature podcasts are underrated.
Beating Louis Theroux and Lily Allen? That is a massive upset! Well deserved for Ill-Advised though.
Honestly, Nighy sounds so comforting. Perfect for listening while ignoring the world.