Television's most iconic presenting duo, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, are staring down the barrel of their first major awards defeat in over twenty years. The unstoppable force, who have clinched the Best Presenter trophy at the National Television Awards a staggering 22 times consecutively, are facing an unprecedented challenge due to a radical overhaul of the voting process.
The National Television Awards (NTAs) have dramatically changed the rules of the game. In a move that shatters tradition, the ceremony has scrapped its dedicated 'Best Presenter' category for the 2024 event. Instead, the nation's favourite hosts will now have to compete against a broad array of talent in a new, catch-all category dubbed 'Best TV Presenter'.
A Clash of Titans in a New Arena
This seismic shift means Ant and Dec will no longer be in a league of their own. They are now pitted against a formidable lineup of broadcasting heavyweights in a much larger pool of nominees. This includes the likes of:
- Bradley Walsh (The Chase)
- Martin Lewis (The Martin Lewis Money Show)
- Rylan Clark
- Alison Hammond
- The entire presenting team from This Morning
This levels the playing field in a way not seen before, potentially splitting the vote and making their path to victory infinitely more difficult.
Why The Change Could End a Dynasty
The duo's two-decade reign has been built on a dedicated and loyal fanbase that turned out in force year after year specifically to vote for them in their category. Now, with the vote split among so many popular figures, their supporters' impact will be diluted. A vote for Alison Hammond or Bradley Walsh is now a direct vote against Ant and Dec.
This strategic shake-up by the NTAs is seen by many industry insiders as a direct attempt to foster fresh competition and crown a new winner, finally breaking a streak that has become both legendary and, to some, predictable.
All eyes will now be on the ceremony later this year to see if television's most dynamic duo can adapt to the new rules and secure a 23rd win, or if a new sovereign will finally be crowned.
