The BBC delivered a commanding performance in the Christmas Day television ratings, comprehensively outperforming its main rival ITV and securing nine of the day's ten most-watched programmes.
A Royal Win and Surprise Hits
The King's Christmas Speech emerged as the single biggest draw of the day, attracting an audience of 4.5 million viewers. In a surprising turn, the animated special The Scarecrow's Wedding proved a major hit, coming a close second with 4.3 million viewers. This narrowly edged out the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special, which drew 4.2 million.
Newcomer Amandaland also placed well with 3 million viewers, while established favourites like The Wheel (3.7 million) and Call The Midwife (3.4 million) solidified the BBC's dominance in the top ten.
Weather Forecast Beats ITV's Best
In perhaps the most startling result, the BBC Weather forecast clocked up 2.8 million viewers. This was enough to outperform ITV's highest-rated programme, The 1% Club, which could only manage tenth place overall with 2.7 million viewers. The result underscores the scale of the BBC's festive victory.
Challenges Behind the Ratings Triumph
The strong ratings will provide welcome relief for BBC executives following a period of significant controversy. The broadcaster has faced intense scrutiny over high-profile scandals, including the conviction of former newsreader Huw Edwards for making indecent images of children and renewed questions about its historic association with Russell Brand, who denies multiple allegations including rape and sexual assault.
It has also faced a major legal challenge from former US President Donald Trump, who filed a $10 billion lawsuit just ten days before Christmas over its Panorama coverage of the 2021 Capitol Riots.
The successful Strictly special also followed a challenging year for the show, marked by investigations into behind-the-scenes conduct. The festive episode saw hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman sign off emotionally, with Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt and pro partner Vito Coppola crowned Christmas champions. Reports suggest All Saints singer Melanie Blatt is a leading contender to replace the departing hosts.
Despite the day's success for traditional broadcasters, the figures reveal a worrying longer-term trend. Overall viewership on Christmas Day fell dramatically compared to previous years. In 2024, the audience for Gavin & Stacey peaked at 12.5 million, and Wallace & Gromit drew 10 million, numbers far exceeding this year's top performer.
