Adolescence Dominates 2026 Bafta TV Award Nominations
Jack Thorne's groundbreaking psychological crime drama Adolescence has emerged as the frontrunner for the 2026 Bafta TV awards, securing an impressive 11 nominations. The Netflix series, which explores the story of a teenager accused of murder, has been hailed by critics as television perfection and leads a strong field of contenders.
Record Nominations for Groundbreaking Drama
The drama's success is particularly notable for its recognition of emerging talent. Four of its stars - Ashley Walters, Christine Tremarco, Erin Doherty, and Owen Cooper - have received their first Bafta TV performance nominations for supporting actor and actress categories. Created by Thorne in collaboration with Stephen Graham and directed by Philip Barantini, the series has also been nominated for the Memorable Moment award, the only category decided by public vote, for a powerful scene where Jamie confronts a psychologist.
Strong Competition Across Categories
Steven Knight's historical boxing drama A Thousand Blows follows closely with seven nominations, including drama series, leading actress, and costume design. The politically charged Star Wars spin-off Andor has secured six nominations, while the adaptation of Louise Kennedy's novel Trespasses set in 1970s Belfast also received six nods.
Jane Millichip, CEO of Bafta, commented on the exceptional quality of television in 2025, stating: "This year's 124 nominated programmes highlight the strength and originality of British storytelling. From powerful documentaries to homegrown drama, we're seeing a medium at its creative peak, with particularly exciting first-time nominees showcasing vibrant new talent."
Breakthrough Talent Recognition
The nominations highlight numerous breakthrough performers, including:
- Ellis Howard for What It Feels Like for a Girl and James Nelson-Joyce for This City is Ours in leading actor categories
- Narges Rashidi for Prisoner 951 as best leading actress nominee
- Nine-year-old Rafael Mathé for his supporting role in The Death of Bunny Munro
- Chyna McQueen for Get Millie Black in best supporting actress
Notably, six nominees are participants of Bafta's talent development programmes, including Olaide Sadiq, Ellis Howard, Mawaan Rizwan, Jack Rooke, Rose Ayling-Ellis, and Dawn Shadforth.
Comedy and Entertainment Highlights
In comedy categories, Amandaland leads with four nominations, including three of its stars - Lucy Punch, Philippa Dunne, and Jennifer Saunders - competing for best actress in a comedy. The Celebrity Traitors received five nominations, recognizing presenter Claudia Winkleman and standout performances from Alan Carr, Joe Marler, Nick Mohammed, and Celia Imrie.
Broadcaster Performance and Awards Ceremony
The BBC leads broadcasters with 73 nominations, followed by Netflix and Sky with 28 each, and Channel 4 with 25. The 2026 TV Baftas ceremony will take place on Sunday 10 May 2026, hosted by comedian Greg Davies, known for his role as Taskmaster.
With 124 nominated programmes spanning drama, comedy, documentary, and current affairs categories, the 2026 Bafta TV awards promise to celebrate a particularly strong year for British television, highlighting both established creators and exciting new voices in the industry.
