Dermot O'Leary 'favourite to replace Michael Buble as Brit Awards host'
DERMOT O'LEARY is reportedly the front-runner to replace Michael Buble as the host of the Brit Awards 2017.
Dermot O'Leary is reportedly the favourite to replace Michael Buble as the Brit Awards host
The X Factor host is said to be in talks with show producers to present the much-loved music ceremony, with bosses citing the star as a "safe pair of hands".
"Dermot is exactly what ITV want to host the Brits, a safe pair of hands," a source told The Sun.
"He has that wealth of experience, especially with live TV. He has been at the helm of The X Factor for a decade and has a solid awards background too, thanks to the NTAs."
Dermot is best-known for hosting ITV's The X Factor
Dermot is exactly what ITV want to host the Brits, a safe pair of hands.
The insider added: "He is talking to producers but hasn't made a decision yet."
Big Brother's Emma Willis is also believed to be a favourite to take over the reins, though she previously admitted she would be saddened if she had to take over from Michael, who was forced to pull out after discovering his son is battling cancer.
"I was honoured to be asked to be part of the Brits and do the launch," she said when speaking at the nominations unveiling show, The Brits Are Coming.
She continued: "I'm hoping Michael will do the main show, because if he does then it means that all is well for him.
"I'm not thinking about me, I'm thinking about him and hoping everything is good."
Dermot is thought to seen as a 'safe pair of hands' for the gig
Michael pulled out of hosting the show after discovering his son is battling cancer
Dermot O'Leary to present the National Television Awards
The Haven't Met You Yet hitmaker cancelled all work commitments last year after his son Noah, three, was diagnosed with cancer in November.
Noah is currently undergoing chemotherapy and has been given a promising 90% chance of survival by doctors.
Until his health improves, Michael, 41, and his wife Luisana Lopilato, 29, - who are also the parents of one-year-old Elias - will remain by his side.