BAFTA Television Awards 2025

On May 11, 2025, the Royal Festival Hall in London hosted the 69th British Academy Television Awards (BAFTA), honoring the most compelling and innovative work in British television over the past year. Hosted by Alan Cumming, the ceremony underscored television’s evolving role as not only a medium for entertainment, but a platform for social change and artistic integrity.

A Night of Standout Performances

The evening’s most notable triumph came from Mr Loverman, an adaptation of Bernardine Evaristo’s acclaimed novel. Lennie James was awarded Leading Actor for his deeply affecting portrayal of a man confronting love, identity, and legacy in later life. His co-star, Ariyon Bakare, received the award for Supporting Actor, marking a rare and meaningful dual win for the same series.

Another major highlight was Jessica Gunning, who won Supporting Actress for Baby Reindeer — a psychologically intense and widely discussed series that blends memoir and fiction to striking effect. Gunning’s performance has been praised for its emotional nuance and terrifying authenticity.

Television as Catalyst: Mr Bates vs The Post OfficeOne of the evening’s most poignant recognitions was the Special BAFTA Award presented to the team behind Mr Bates vs The Post Office. In addition to winning Best Limited Drama Series, the show was acknowledged for its profound societal impact. Based on a real-life miscarriage of justice involving hundreds of sub-postmasters, the series reignited national debate and directly influenced public and political discourse. It stood as a reminder of television’s potential to illuminate truth and drive accountability.

International Excellence and Bold NarrativesIn the Best International Programme category, the BAFTA went to the sweeping historical epic Shōgun, signaling continued audience appetite for globally ambitious storytelling. At home, Best Drama Series was awarded to Blue Lights, a gripping and grounded portrayal of police officers navigating moral complexity in Northern Ireland.

Comedy, Entertainment, and Audience FavoritesThe beloved Strictly Come Dancing continued its reign, winning Best Entertainment Programme and also earning the P&O Cruises Memorable Moment award for a heartfelt performance by Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell — a celebration of inclusivity and artistry.

In comedy, Ruth Jones was honored for Best Female Comedy Performance in Gavin & Stacey: The Finale, delivering a fitting sendoff to a show that has left a lasting cultural legacy. Danny Dyer took home Best Male Comedy Performance for his role in Mr Bigstuff, adding a personal and relatable touch to the comedic landscape.

A Lifetime of ContributionThe evening concluded with the presentation of the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship to veteran journalist and broadcaster Kirsty Wark, recognizing a distinguished career defined by fearless inquiry, clarity, and a commitment to public service broadcasting.

Television with PurposeThis year’s BAFTA Television Awards were not simply a celebration of craft, but a reflection of our times. From historical epics to contemporary memoir, from light entertainment to hard-hitting journalism, the winners demonstrated that television continues to be one of the most vital and relevant cultural forms today.