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EastEnders fans have reason to celebrate as the iconic BBC soap scooped two major honours at this year’s National Television Awards, beating long-time rivals Coronation Street and Emmerdale once again. The 40-year-old drama claimed the coveted Serial Drama award, seeing off tough competition from ITV stalwarts Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Hollyoaks, and even hospital favourite Casualty.
It was a particularly emotional night for the EastEnders cast and crew as Steve McFadden, who has played Phil Mitchell since 1990, was awarded the Serial Drama Performance award. Incredibly, this was McFadden’s first NTA win in 35 years of playing one of Albert Square’s most iconic characters. Taking to the stage to a roaring ovation, the 66-year-old star paid tribute to the other soaps and their hardworking casts before expressing his gratitude to fans for their unwavering support. “It’s a huge honour to win this. EastEnders has been such a massive part of my life for so long, and I share this with the whole cast and crew who put their hearts into the show every day,” he said.
Steve McFadden as Phil Mitchell and Paul Bradley as Nigel Bates in EastEnders - Credit: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron
The back-to-back victories for EastEnders come at a time when the soap is celebrating its milestone 40th birthday year, making the night even more significant for the show’s legacy. Winning the Serial Drama award is considered the crown jewel of the NTAs, voted for entirely by the public, reaffirming EastEnders’ enduring popularity.
Elsewhere on the night, there was plenty of drama off-screen as the awards stirred up some controversy. Model and influencer Molly-Mae Hague’s documentary Molly-Mae: Behind It All won Best Authored Documentary, beating the family of rugby league legend Rob Burrow and Strictly star Amy Dowden’s emotional cancer journey, a result that sparked debate on social media.
Her speech expressed heartfelt gratitude to her loved ones and the producers of her documentary – Credit: ITV
It wasn’t just EastEnders celebrating, with other categories producing some standout winners. Michael McIntyre’s Big Show picked up the Bruce Forsyth Entertainment Award, while Call the Midwife was crowned Returning Drama champion. Clarkson’s Farm continued its success story by winning Factual Entertainment, and ITV’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! triumphed once again in the Reality Competition category.
Gary Lineker was named Best TV Presenter, Gavin & Stacey took home the Comedy award, and This Morning, despite recent controversies, claimed the Daytime prize. The 1% Club was recognised as Best Quiz Show, and the hugely popular Strictly Come Dancing won Best Talent Show. Special recognition went to Wallace & Gromit, celebrating the beloved claymation duo’s contribution to British television.
But it was undoubtedly EastEnders’ night to shine, cementing its status as one of Britain’s most beloved soaps and giving long-serving cast members, including McFadden, a well-deserved moment in the spotlight. With the show’s recent dramatic storylines and milestone celebrations continuing to grip viewers, its future looks as strong as ever.
