LOS ANGELES, CA – November 11, 2026 – Film Independent, the nonprofit organization dedicated to championing independent storytelling and supporting artists, announced today that acclaimed comedians, actors and longtime creative collaborators Kate Berlant and John Early will co-host the 2027 Film Independent Spirit Awards. Known for their singular comedic sensibilities, razor-sharp wit and wildly inventive performances, the duo will bring their unmistakable chemistry to the 42nd annual celebration of the best in independent film and television, taking place Saturday, March 6, 2027, at the historic Hollywood Palladium.
“If there’s one thing we don’t need, it’s another predictable awards show,” said Juan Devis, President of Film Independent. “Kate and John are two of the funniest, strangest and most brilliantly unpredictable performers working today. They embody everything we love about independent storytelling: originality, fearlessness and a healthy disregard for convention. We’re excited to shake things up, break a few rules and have some fun along the way.”
“We’ve always been obsessed with awards shows, and we’re so honored we get to host the coolest one. Tune in to see if we choke under pressure!” said co-hosts Kate Berlant and John Early in a joint statement.
Friends and creative collaborators for more than a decade, Berlant and Early have earned a devoted following for their distinctive brand of absurdist comedy, blending sharp social satire, improvisation and delightfully unpredictable performances. Their collaborations include the acclaimed sketch series 555 and the Emmy-nominated comedy special Would It Kill You to Laugh?, which showcased their singular ability to transform familiar comedic conventions into something entirely unexpected.
Beyond their work together, both have established themselves as celebrated performers across film, television and comedy. Berlant’s credits include Sorry to Bother You, Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, Don’t Worry Darling and The Bear. She has also earned acclaim for her one-woman show KATE and her comedy specials Cinnamon in the Wind and Parmesan. Early is known for his breakout performance in the critically acclaimed series Search Party, as well as his stand-up special Now More Than Ever. He recently made his feature directorial debut with Maddie’s Secret, in which Berlant also appears.
Nominations for the 42nd annual awards show will be announced December 2, 2026. This year’s ceremony will introduce the Best International First Feature and Digital Creator Award categories, further expanding the Spirit Awards’ recognition of bold, original storytelling across platforms and around the world. Also new this year, acclaimed filmmaker Roman Coppola will bring his artistic vision to the celebration in the newly created Creative Consultant role. The Nominee Brunch, an annual highlight honoring all nominees and featuring the presentation of the Emerging Filmmaker Awards, will take place on Saturday, January 9, 2027, once again at The London West Hollywood.
Berlant and Early join a celebrated roster of past Spirit Awards hosts including Ego Nwodim, Aidy Bryant, Hasan Minhaj, Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, Nick Kroll and John Mulaney, Kate McKinnon and Kumail Nanjiani, Fred Armisen and Kristen Bell, Andy Samberg and John Waters.
Only Film Independent Members determine the winners of the Film Independent Spirit Awards. To learn more go to www.filmindependent.org/join/.
The Film Independent Spirit Awards are supported by Principal Partner IMDbPro and Official Partner The Redford Center. The London West Hollywood and W Hollywood are Official Hotels. Pentagram is the Visual Branding Partner. Getty Images is the Official Photographer. Vision Digital is the Exclusive Screening Partner.
