New host for 'Film 2010'

Claudia Winkleman is to step into Jonathan Ross' TV shoes...

11:51 29 March 2010

Claudia Winkleman has been named as the new host for Film 2010, the BBC has confirmed.

The presenter is to step into Jonathan Ross' shoes as the voice of opinion on the year's films.

Winkleman will take over the presenting gig on the long running BBC programme – which is to receive a facelift and new look for 2010 – later this year.

As part of the transformation, 'Film 2010' will feature a wide range of cinema and industry experts and a variety of studio guests.

About her new hosting role, Winkleman said: "Everyone has an opinion on film and I'm looking forward to debating the biggest news and releases with a whole variety of guests each week.

"I am completely over the moon about being given this enormous honour and am incredibly proud to be to be presenting the new look 'Film 2010'. It's an honour to follow on from the brilliant Jonathan Ross.

Winkleman is no stranger to the presenting stage; she currently has her own weekly 'Arts Show' on BBC Radio 2 on Friday nights, delivering a feast of the latest offerings from film, theatre, arts, TV and music.

She has also previously hosted Strictly supplement 'It Takes Two' and a series of awards shows.

She said: "I have been lucky enough to cover the BAFTAs and present the UK broadcasts of the Oscars and the Golden Globes for years and now to be able to work with the producers on 'Film 2010' is just amazing."

BBC One's 'Film' show, which started as 'Film 72', was originally presented by film critic Barry Norman between 1972 and 1998.

Jonathan Ross took over from the 1999 series and hosted the show until earlier this year.

Winkleman begins her new role in September.