Honestly? I didn't see this coming.
Just got back from watching the 2025 British Soap Awards coverage and my jaw is still on the floor. EastEnders didn't just win - they obliterated the competition like a wrecking ball through Albert Square. Eight awards. EIGHT. Meanwhile, Coronation Street and Emmerdale were left picking up the scraps like they'd shown up to the wrong party.
Jane McDonald was back hosting for her second year (thank God they brought the awards back after that weird 2024 hiatus), and you could practically feel the tension in the Hackney Empire when the results started rolling in. My mate who works in TV texted me halfway through: "This is brutal for ITV."
When Your Favourite Show Gets Publicly Humiliated
Look, I've been watching Corrie since I was knee-high to a grasshopper, and this stung. The show that gave us decades of brilliant storytelling walked away with just one award - David Neilson's Outstanding Achievement gong for Roy Cropper. Don't get me wrong, the man deserves every bit of recognition (Julie Hesmondhalgh presenting it to him was a lovely touch), but come on.
One award. After all these years.
The mass exodus of cast members over the past six months suddenly makes sense now, doesn't it? When you're hemorrhaging talent and ITV's going through their cash crisis, maybe the writing was already on the wall. Or should I say, the writing wasn't on the wall because half the writers probably left too.
EastEnders' Victory Lap Was Absolutely Relentless
Credit where it's due - BBC's soap machine was firing on all cylinders in 2025. Their 40th anniversary year was nothing short of spectacular, and apparently the judges agreed. Best Soap? Obviously. Lacey Turner snagging Best Leading Performer right before her exit? Chef's kiss. Steve McFadden winning Best Dramatic Performance as Phil Mitchell (though he couldn't be bothered to show up - classic Phil move).
But here's what really got me: Angela Wynter and Rudolph Walker beating out the beloved "Swarla" partnership (Lisa Swain and Carla Connor) for Best On-Screen Partnership. That one had to hurt for Corrie fans. We've been rooting for those two characters for months, and they got steamrolled by Patrick and Yolande.
The Scene of the Year going to Angie Watts' return was predictable but deserved. Anita Dobson coming back after all these years? Pure television gold. Even I got goosebumps, and I'm supposed to be Team Weatherfield.
Poor Emmerdale Got Lost in the Shuffle
Emmerdale managed two awards - Amelia Flanagan for Best Young Performer (beating her own brother Will from Corrie, which must make for interesting family dinners) and Mike Plant getting the Tony Warren Award for his camera work. Two awards isn't nothing, but when you're staring down the barrel of those January 2026 schedule cuts that'll slice 30 minutes from your weekly airtime...
Yeah. Not exactly the confidence boost you need.
Hollyoaks Quietly Had a Decent Night
Channel 4's soap picked up three awards, which honestly surprised me. Isabelle Smith for Best Newcomer, The Osbourne family for Best Family, and their sibling sexual abuse storyline winning Best Storyline. Heavy topics, but they're handling them well.
Still, three awards feels like a consolation prize when EastEnders is hoovering up everything else.
What This Actually Means (Beyond My Wounded Pride)
Here's the thing that's bothering me most about all this. These results don't exist in a vacuum. ITV's been cutting costs left and right, both Corrie and Emmerdale are losing established actors faster than you can say "dramatic exit," and now they're getting publicly embarrassed at the industry's biggest night.
The criticism about Coronation Street's increasingly far-fetched storylines isn't new - I've been complaining about some of them myself. But when you're operating with budget constraints and half your experienced cast has walked, maybe quality control becomes... challenging.
My editor made a bet with me last month that Corrie would bounce back by Christmas. Looking at these results, I'm starting to think he owes me twenty quid instead.
The Aftermath
The ceremony airs this Thursday on ITV, so we'll get to see all the awkward reactions and forced smiles in high definition. Should be fun in that car-crash sort of way.
But honestly? Maybe this is the wake-up call ITV needs. When your flagship soaps are getting demolished by the competition at their own awards ceremony, it's time to have some serious conversations about investment, storytelling, and keeping your bloody actors happy.
EastEnders proved that good writing, strong performances, and proper investment in your product still matter. The rest of them just got schooled.
Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go rewatch some classic Corrie episodes to remind myself why I fell in love with this show in teh first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any notable awards that UK soap operas have won?
UK soap operas have received numerous awards over the years, including BAFTA Awards, National Television Awards, and British Soap Awards. These accolades recognize excellence in storytelling, acting, and production.
How has the viewership of UK soap operas changed over the years?
Viewership of UK soap operas has fluctuated over the years, with some experiencing declines due to changing viewing habits and competition from streaming services. However, many still maintain a loyal audience and adapt to new trends.
What role do special episodes play in UK soap operas?
Special episodes, such as anniversaries or holiday specials, are significant events in UK soap operas. They often feature dramatic storylines or significant character developments, drawing in higher viewership and creating buzz among fans.
How long has "EastEnders" been on air?
"EastEnders" first premiered on February 19, 1985. It has since become one of the longest-running and most recognized soap operas in the UK, known for its compelling storylines and diverse characters.
What is the format of a typical episode of a UK soap opera?
A typical episode of a UK soap opera runs for about 30 minutes and features multiple interwoven storylines focusing on different characters. This format allows for a dynamic viewing experience and keeps audiences engaged.
Statistics
- More than 30% of the UK population watches at least one soap opera regularly.
- The average viewership for "EastEnders" is approximately 5 million viewers per episode.
- Approximately 15% of the viewership for UK soap operas comes from overseas audiences, particularly in Australia and New Zealand.
- In 2022, "Hollyoaks" addressed mental health issues through a storyline that received significant media attention and praise.
- As of 2023, "Emmerdale" has won the British Soap Award for Best British Soap multiple times, with over 20 wins.
- The British Soap Awards, held annually, attract millions of viewers and celebrate the best in soap opera performances and storylines.
- The portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters has become increasingly prominent in UK soap operas, reflecting societal changes and advancements in representation.
- "Coronation Street" holds the record as the longest-running soap opera in the UK, having first aired in 1960.
External Links
How To
How To Understand Character Relationships in Soap Operas
Understanding character relationships in UK soap operas can initially be overwhelming due to the intricate plots and numerous characters. To navigate these relationships, begin by accessing character charts or family trees often provided on official soap opera websites. These resources outline connections, such as family ties and romantic entanglements. Watching key episodes that feature significant character developments can also provide context. Engaging with online fan discussions or summaries can further clarify complicated relationships. Keeping track of character arcs through dedicated apps or websites can enhance your understanding of their dynamics over time.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://hellofaread.com/soap-opera/so-paloma-faith-used-to-bully-natalie-cassidy-at-school-this-got-weird-fast
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