The National Television Awards (NTAs) have always been a much-anticipated event for television fans across the UK, and the 2024 edition was no different. Held at the O2 Arena in London, the event brought together the biggest names in British television to celebrate the best of the best. From gripping dramas and side-splitting comedies to heartwarming reality shows and engaging documentaries, the NTAs recognize and honor the wide range of talent and creativity that goes into making great television. Here’s a breakdown of this year’s winners across various categories.
1. Best Drama Series
The Best Drama Series category is always one of the most competitive, with numerous outstanding shows vying for the coveted title. This year, “The Crown” emerged as the winner, continuing its reign as one of the most popular and critically acclaimed dramas on television. The show’s intricate storytelling, coupled with powerful performances from its cast, particularly Imelda Staunton as Queen Elizabeth II, made it a deserving winner. “The Crown” beat out other strong contenders such as “Line of Duty,” “Peaky Blinders,” and “Doctor Who.”
Honorable Mentions:
- “Line of Duty”: Known for its intense plot twists and strong character development.
- “Peaky Blinders”: A cult favorite, beloved for its unique setting and gritty storyline.
- “Doctor Who”: The iconic sci-fi series remains a staple of British television.
2. Best Comedy Show
Comedy is an integral part of British television culture, and this year’s NTAs highlighted some of the funniest shows that have graced our screens. “Derry Girls” took home the award for Best Comedy Show, thanks to its sharp wit, nostalgic references, and brilliant performances by the ensemble cast. The final season of “Derry Girls” struck a chord with audiences, combining humor with heartfelt moments and a fitting conclusion to the beloved series.
Other Nominees:
- “The Outlaws”: A refreshing take on the comedy-drama genre with stellar performances.
- “Ghosts”: A light-hearted and quirky series that has become a fan favorite.
- “Taskmaster”: Continues to entertain with its unique format and hilarious challenges.
3. Best Actor
The Best Actor category was filled with talented performers who delivered exceptional performances over the past year. This year, the award went to Cillian Murphy for his portrayal of Thomas Shelby in “Peaky Blinders.” Murphy’s compelling performance in the final season of the show showcased his range and depth as an actor, earning him praise from both critics and fans alike.
Other Notable Performances:
- Adrian Dunbar in “Line of Duty”: His portrayal of Superintendent Ted Hastings remains iconic.
- David Tennant in “Around the World in 80 Days”: A captivating performance that brought new life to a classic story.
- Martin Compston in “Line of Duty”: An exceptional actor who never fails to impress.
4. Best Actress
In the Best Actress category, the award went to Jodie Comer for her role in “Killing Eve.” Comer’s portrayal of Villanelle, a complex and multi-dimensional character, has consistently captivated viewers and critics. Her ability to bring humor, intensity, and vulnerability to the role has made her one of the most celebrated actresses in recent years.
Honorable Mentions:
- Olivia Colman in “The Crown”: A masterful performance as Queen Elizabeth II.
- Suranne Jones in “Gentleman Jack”: A strong and compelling lead in a period drama.
- Nicola Walker in “The Split”: A poignant and powerful portrayal of a woman facing personal and professional challenges.
5. Best Daytime Show
Daytime television continues to be a significant part of British culture, providing a mix of entertainment, information, and comfort to millions of viewers. The winner for Best Daytime Show this year was “This Morning”, a long-standing favorite known for its engaging hosts and diverse range of topics. The show continues to be a staple of British television, offering everything from celebrity interviews to cooking segments and human-interest stories.
Other Nominees:
- “Loose Women”: Known for its lively discussions and strong panel of hosts.
- “The Chase”: A popular quiz show that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
- “Good Morning Britain”: A dynamic and often controversial morning show.
6. Best Talent Show
Talent shows have always been a popular genre, showcasing a wide range of abilities from across the country. This year, the award for Best Talent Show went to “Strictly Come Dancing.” The show’s blend of entertainment, celebrity performances, and professional dance routines makes it a perennial favorite. With its glitzy costumes, compelling narratives, and viewer interaction, “Strictly Come Dancing” continues to capture the hearts of the nation.
Other Popular Contenders:
- “Britain’s Got Talent”: Known for its diversity of acts and emotional moments.
- “The Great British Bake Off”: A feel-good show that brings the nation together.
- “The X Factor”: Still popular for its dramatic performances and entertaining judges.
7. Best New Drama
The Best New Drama category recognizes the fresh, innovative, and gripping dramas that have made a significant impact on audiences. This year’s winner was “Heartstopper,” a coming-of-age series that resonated with viewers for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and adolescence. The show’s heartfelt storytelling and authentic characters have quickly made it a standout among new dramas.
Other Nominees:
- “Vigil”: A thriller that kept audiences on the edge of their seats.
- “Trigger Point”: A high-stakes drama featuring strong performances and gripping storylines.
- “The Responder”: A gritty, character-driven drama that offers a fresh perspective.
8. Impact of the NTAs on the Television Industry
The National Television Awards not only celebrate the best of British television but also have a significant impact on the industry. Winning an NTA is considered a prestigious honor and can lead to increased viewership, higher ratings, and a stronger fan base for the shows and actors involved. Moreover, the recognition can provide a platform for lesser-known shows and talent to gain prominence and opportunities for future projects.
8.1 Driving Creativity and Innovation
The NTAs inspire creativity and innovation by acknowledging outstanding achievements in various genres, from drama and comedy to reality TV and documentaries. They push the boundaries of storytelling and encourage producers, writers, and directors to take creative risks and explore new formats, themes, and narratives.
8.2 Shaping Viewer Preferences
The awards also play a crucial role in shaping viewer preferences. A win at the NTAs often leads to a surge in popularity for the show or actor, influencing what viewers choose to watch. This, in turn, affects the types of shows that networks commission, contributing to a dynamic and evolving television landscape.
9. Memorable Moments from NTA 2024
Every year, the NTAs provide a night full of memorable moments, and 2024 was no exception. From emotional acceptance speeches to hilarious on-stage interactions, this year’s ceremony had it all.
9.1 Emotional Speeches
Cillian Murphy’s heartfelt speech after winning Best Actor moved the audience as he dedicated his award to the late Helen McCrory, his co-star on “Peaky Blinders,” reflecting on their time working together and her lasting impact on his career.
9.2 Surprise Wins and Reactions
The award for Best New Drama going to “Heartstopper” was met with an enthusiastic reaction from the cast and fans. The show’s creator, Alice Oseman, expressed her gratitude and emphasized the importance of diverse and inclusive storytelling in modern television.
10. Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2025
As the curtains fall on another spectacular year at the NTAs, the excitement for 2025 has already begun. With numerous promising shows on the horizon and new talent emerging, next year’s awards promise to be just as thrilling. The NTAs will continue to be a platform that champions the best in television, pushing the industry to deliver groundbreaking content that resonates with audiences.
10.1 Anticipated Shows and Performances
Fans are eagerly awaiting new seasons of beloved series like “Line of Duty” and “The Crown,” as well as fresh content such as “A Gentleman in Moscow,” “The English,” and many more that have the potential to dominate next year’s awards.
10.2 Evolving Categories and Recognitions
With the changing landscape of television, the NTAs might introduce new categories to better reflect the diversity of content available across various platforms. There could be more emphasis on recognizing digital and streaming content, given the growing impact of services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ on the TV industry.
Conclusion
The National Television Awards 2024 once again highlighted the incredible talent and creativity that make British television some of the best in the world. As we look forward to another year of groundbreaking television, the NTAs continue to serve as a celebration of the artistry, dedication, and hard work that go into creating the shows we love. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees of NTA 2024!