EastEnders was named Best Serial Drama at the National Television Awards 2025, triumphing over Emmerdale, Hollyoaks, Coronation Street and Casualty. The BBC One soap previously took the prize in 2023, while Emmerdale had won in 2024 and 2022.
Accepting the award, Rudolph Walker, who plays Patrick Trueman, described the team behind the show as "the happiest family on television", adding: "The evidence is what you all see on the screen." He teased fans with: "All I can say on behalf of this fantastic family... watch this space!"
The night also saw Steve McFadden win the Serial Drama Performance Award for his portrayal of Phil Mitchell, recognising his storyline around mental health and supporting friend Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley, who is living with dementia.
The win comes after EastEnders celebrated its 40th anniversary earlier this year, featuring an explosion at the Queen Vic and the emotional death of Martin Fowler, played by James Bye, the first baby born on the soap. Ross Kemp and Anita Dobson were among those returning, with Dobson's Angie Watts appearing as a vision.
Behind the scenes, executive producer Chris Clenshaw departed after his final episode aired on 13 June 2025, with Ben Wadey taking over. Wadey has overseen storylines including a reunion for Kat Moon, played by Jessie Wallace, and Zoe Slater, played by Michelle Ryan.
