Television fans across the UK were left utterly gobsmacked during Wednesday's National Television Awards as the nation's favourite presenting duo, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, clinched the Best Presenter trophy for an astonishing 23rd consecutive year.
The win sparked immediate controversy on social media, with countless viewers branding the result a "total fix" and questioning the validity of the voting process. The outrage intensified given Holly Willoughby's notable absence from the shortlist following her dramatic departure from This Morning.
Social Media Erupts Over 'Predictable' Win
X (formerly Twitter) became a battleground of disbelief moments after the announcement. One furious viewer posted: "No way did Ant and Dec win again. It's an absolute fix! #NTAs," capturing the sentiment of thousands.
Another disgruntled fan commented: "How have Ant and Dec won? Who is voting for them? It's the same every year. Time for someone new." The backlash was swift and severe, suggesting a growing fatigue with the predictable outcome.
Holly's Dramatic Exit Overshadows Proceedings
The absence of Holly Willoughby, a former staple of the category, loomed large over the ceremony. Her exit from ITV's This Morning in October, following an alleged kidnap plot, made her ineligible for nomination this year.
Many speculated that her presence would have made the competition far more compelling, with one social media user stating: "The only person who could have challenged them was Holly, and she's not even there."
Ant's Emotional Speech Met With Mixed Reactions
An emotional Ant McPartlin fought back tears during his acceptance speech, telling the audience: "This is a genuine shock, especially this year. We are incredibly grateful."
However, the heartfelt moment failed to quell the scepticism online. Critics were quick to point out the irony of the "shock" win, given its two-decade-long precedent. Despite the online fury, the duo's loyal fanbase celebrated their enduring popularity, proving that even after 23 years, Ant and Dec remain a formidable force in British television—whether some viewers like it or not.
