ITV British Soap Awards Finally Cancelled
This marks the second time in recent years that the popular ceremony has been shelved. ITV have simply stated that “The British Soap Awards is taking a break and won’t be on air in 2026.”
The awards, which first launched in 1999, have long served as a glittering celebration of British soap opera talent. They honour stars and storylines from flagship shows including Coronation Street, Emmerdale, EastEnders, and Hollyoaks. The glitzy event typically features red-carpet glamour, emotional acceptance speeches, and fierce competition for categories like Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Soap, and Villain of the Year. In 2025, the ceremony returned after a hiatus, hosted by Jane McDonald at the Hackney Empire in London. EastEnders dominated the night, reinforcing its status as a powerhouse of British television.
This latest cancellation follows a pattern of uncertainty. The 2024 ceremony was also axed, reportedly for cost and scheduling reasons, before a one-year revival. Fans have expressed disappointment online, with many viewing the awards as a rare opportunity for the soaps to come together and for audiences to recognise outstanding performances. Some speculate that broader budget cuts at ITV, amid challenging advertising revenues and shifting viewer habits, have played a significant role. Others point to the declining overall ratings for traditional soaps in a fragmented streaming era.
The decision leaves soap enthusiasts feeling short-changed. While individual programmes may still hold internal accolades or benefit from BAFTA recognition, the British Soap Awards offered a dedicated platform that unified the genre. ITV has not confirmed plans for 2027, leaving the future of the event uncertain. In an age where soaps continue to deliver high-stakes drama and loyal viewership, the pause raises questions about the broadcaster’s commitment to one of its longest-running formats.
For now, fans must content themselves with the on-screen storylines rather than an annual awards night. Whether this “break” signals a permanent decline or a temporary reset remains to be seen. The British Soap Awards have survived previous challenges, including COVID cancellations, but this latest hiatus feels particularly poignant for an industry facing ongoing evolution.
Reviewer of movies, videogames and music since 1994. Aortic valve operation survivor from the same year. Running DVDfever.co.uk since 2000. Nobel Peace Prize winner 2021.