British Animation Awards To Return In 2028 Under New Leadership

The British Animation Awards will return to London in 2028 after a hiatus, with animation industry veterans Tracy Shaw and Anna Lord taking the organization’s leadership.

Founded in 1996, the biennial awards recognize British animation across features, television, shorts, and other formats. The relaunch will introduce a refreshed category structure, including new categories allowing work from other countries to compete. Details on those categories have yet to be announced.

Shaw’s career includes roles at Warner Bros., Universal Pictures, and DreamWorks Animation, while Lord has held senior positions at Nexus Studios, Locksmith Animation, and Passion Pictures. They succeed Helen Brunsdon, who led the organization for eight years and oversaw its last three editions.

“We were proud to expand the BAA’s reach across the British regions, areas that contribute so significantly to our industry,” Brunsdon said. “I’m delighted to be handing over stewardship to Anna and Tracy, who share a passion and enthusiasm for the art form, the people and the industry.”

In a joint statement, Lord and Shaw said:

The British Animation Awards have played an important role in recognising and championing the extraordinary talent and creativity within our industry for almost three decades. We’re honoured to be bringing the BAAs back at a time when British animation is making such a strong impact both nationally and internationally. The UK has an exceptional animation ecosystem, from ambitious independent creators and studios to major international productions, we will ensure the Awards reflect and celebrate that breadth.

The relaunch will also include a new website and refreshed digital presence. The existing archive of winners and awards history will remain available, and organizers are seeking new sponsorship and partnership arrangements.