BAFTA TV Awards 2025: Unforgettable Highlights from British Television’s Biggest Night
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The 2025 BAFTA TV Awards was an electrifying evening that paid homage to the year’s most compelling performances and powerful television narratives. Held at London’s Royal Festival Hall and hosted by the ever-charming Alan Cumming, the event featured 29 award presentations, moving speeches, and memorable moments that celebrated not just entertainment—but the profound societal impact of British television.
From surprise wins to emotional tributes, here’s a look at the defining moments of this star-studded celebration.
Marisa Abela’s Emotional Win Stuns the Audience
In a surprise twist, Industry star Marisa Abela walked away with the Best Actress award, beating strong contenders in a fiercely competitive category. Abela, just 28, was visibly moved as she thanked her drama teacher and her actress mother, crediting them for shaping her career. Her heartfelt speech, delivered in a stunning black gown that required assistance to the stage, was one of the night’s most touching moments.
Lennie James Crowned Best Actor
Veteran actor Lennie James finally received long-overdue recognition, taking home the Best Actor BAFTA for his compelling role. His win underscored the depth and diversity of talent in UK television, adding gravitas to an already powerful lineup of nominees.
Jessica Gunning’s Joyous Start: ‘Hello Cheeky Chops!’
The show opened with a high-energy win from Jessica Gunning for her performance in Baby Reindeer. The first-time nominee greeted her BAFTA with a jubilant “Hello cheeky chops!”—a phrase that instantly trended online. Gunning reflected on her childhood dream of acting, calling her role as Martha life-changing. This role has already earned her multiple international accolades, including a Golden Globe.
‘Mr Bates vs The Post Office’ Makes a Statement
Winning Best Limited Drama, Mr Bates vs The Post Office wasn’t just a win for TV—it was a victory for justice. Producer Patrick Spence praised the real heroes: the public and campaigners who fought against the wrongful convictions in the Horizon IT scandal. ITV’s Kevin Lygo used his platform to issue a clear demand: “Hurry up and pay these people what they’re due.”
Danny Dyer and Sophie Willan Let Loose
Danny Dyer made waves with his raw and real acceptance speech, filled with expletives and gratitude. His comedic brilliance in Plebs: Soldiers of Rome earned him the Best Male Comedy Performance, a first-time win.
Sophie Willan, accepting the Best Scripted Comedy award for Alma’s Not Normal, followed suit with her unapologetically honest speech, praising her team as “shit hot” while laughing off her accidental swearing. Her semi-autobiographical show remains a standout for its bold storytelling about the care system, addiction, and mental health.
Ruth Jones Thanks James Corden with Love
The Gavin & Stacey finale scored Best Female Comedy Performance for Ruth Jones, who paid an emotional tribute to co-creator James Corden. Dressed as her iconic character Nessa, she hinted at a possible future collaboration with Corden, reigniting fan hopes for more from the beloved duo.
BAFTAs Highlight War and Conflict with Poignant Tributes
Not all moments were glitz and glam. The Best Single Documentary went to Ukraine: Enemy In The Woods, filmed by frontline soldiers. Director Jamie Roberts honored two contributors who were killed in action, adding a solemn weight to the evening.
State Of Rage, winning in the Current Affairs category, also used its moment to call for peace, with director Marcel Mettelsiefen urging the world to speak out against the violence in Gaza.
Kirsty Wark Receives BAFTA Fellowship
The legendary broadcaster Kirsty Wark received the BAFTA Fellowship, the organization’s highest honor. Her speech was a nostalgic journey through decades of broadcasting, from the days of shoulder pads and film crews the size of football teams to today’s dynamic, female-led media landscape. Her powerful reflections reminded everyone how far the industry has come.
Would I Lie To You? Finally Scores Gold
After eight years of nominations, the long-running panel show Would I Lie To You? finally clinched its first BAFTA. Host Rob Brydon and team captain Lee Mack joked about the show’s lucky charm—Brydon’s gig as “Mr Cruises” in P&O Cruises commercials (the event’s sponsor). Whether coincidence or not, the win was well-deserved.
Sir David Suchet Returns as Poirot
Sir David Suchet delighted fans by momentarily stepping back into his famous role as Hercule Poirot to present the Best Actress award. His theatrical introduction earned thunderous applause, proving that his beloved detective persona still holds a special place in British hearts.
In Memoriam: A Moving Tribute to Lost Stars
Set to the haunting sounds of concert violinist Esther Abrami, the In Memoriam segment honored industry giants we lost this year, including Shannon Doherty, The Vivienne, Timothy West, and many others. It was a moment of reflection amid the night’s celebrations.
Final Thoughts
The BAFTA TV Awards 2025 was more than just a ceremony—it was a testament to the power of storytelling. From hard-hitting dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, from justice-driven narratives to personal victories, British television once again proved its global impact. With fresh talent rising and seasoned stars shining bright, the future of UK television looks bolder than ever.
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