Strictly Come Dancing Dealt a Devastating Blow with BAFTA Snub
In a shocking turn of events, the beloved BBC programme Strictly Come Dancing has been completely overlooked in the nominations for the BAFTA Television Awards. This marks the first time in eight years that the show has failed to secure a spot in the Entertainment Programme category, where it had consistently featured since 2019 and even clinched a victory in 2024.
Adding to the disappointment, the ballroom sensation has also been excluded from the Memorable Moment award, despite having won this public-voted gong twice in previous years. This unprecedented snub comes on the heels of significant upheaval behind the scenes, including the high-profile departures of long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, as well as a brutal culling of professional dancers from the cast.
Industry Insider Reveals Concerns Over Show's Direction
An industry source expressed astonishment at the rapid decline, stating: 'This is a spectacular turn of events for Strictly, which was flying high at the Baftas just two years ago, coinciding with its 20th anniversary celebrations. However, the programme has since become mired in scandal, and with the exit of two of its greatest assets—Tess and Claudia—there seems to be less to celebrate about the show.' The Daily Mail has reached out to Strictly Come Dancing for an official comment, but no response has been provided yet.
Recent weeks have left fans reeling as favourites such as Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Michelle, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Marquez were all axed from the lineup. Sources indicate that producers are prioritising professionals with larger online followings in a desperate attempt to attract younger viewers. Additionally, reports confirm that Fleur East and Janette Manrara have been removed from the spin-off series It Takes Two, further signalling a dramatic overhaul.
Adolescence Dominates BAFTA Shortlist with Eleven Nominations
While Strictly struggles, the Netflix drama Adolescence has emerged as a powerhouse, securing a mammoth eleven nominations across categories including Limited Drama and Leading Actor. The series, which debuted in March last year, continues its awards season dominance, having already bagged nine Primetime Emmy Awards, four Golden Globes, and a Critics Choice Award.
Created by actor Stephen Graham and writer Jack Thorne, Adolescence tells the gripping story of British teenager Jamie Miller, who is convicted of murder after being influenced by online radicalisation. Stephen Graham will compete against heavyweights like Colin Firth and Matt Smith for the Leading Actor award, while co-stars Ashley Walters and Owen Cooper face off in the Supporting Actor category.
In total, Netflix has garnered 28 nominations, but the BBC leads the pack with 73 nods, five of which are for The Celebrity Traitors—the highest-rated show on British TV last year. Host Claudia Winkleman is nominated in the Entertainment Programme section, while Prime Video's Last One Laughing will vie against the all-stars version of The Traitors, with comedian Bob Mortimer up for best Entertainment Performance.
BAFTA CEO Praises a Stellar Year for Television
The BAFTA Television Awards ceremony is scheduled for May 10 at London's Southbank Centre Royal Festival Hall, hosted by comedian Greg Davies. BAFTA CEO Jane Millchip remarked: '2025 has been an exceptional year for television, reflected in 124 nominated programmes that highlight the strength and originality of British storytelling. From powerful documentaries and standout comedy to homegrown drama and international series that captured global attention, this year’s nominees demonstrate a medium at its creative peak.'
As the industry prepares for the glitzy event, the absence of Strictly Come Dancing from the nominations list underscores a period of transition and challenge for the once-dominant entertainment staple.
