In a surprising turn of events, the BBC's flagship entertainment programme Strictly Come Dancing has been completely overlooked by the BAFTA Television Awards, receiving zero nominations for the first time in eight years. This marks a dramatic fall from grace for the show, which had consistently featured in the Entertainment Programme category since 2019 and won the award as recently as 2024.
A Notable Absence from Key Categories
Strictly Come Dancing has not been entered into the Entertainment Programme category for this year's awards, despite its historical dominance. The shortlist for this category now includes The Graham Norton Show, Last One Laughing, Michael McIntyre's Big Show, and Would I Lie To You?.
Furthermore, the show is also absent from the Memorable Moment award, a category voted for by the public where Strictly has triumphed twice in the past four years. Instead, programmes like Adolescence, Last One Laughing, and The Celebrity Traitors are competing for that honour.
Industry Reaction and Recent Challenges
An industry insider commented on the situation, stating: "This is a spectacular turn of events for Strictly which was flying high at the Baftas just two years ago, as the show was also celebrating its 20th birthday. But since then it's become mired in scandal and now, of course, two of its greatest assets — Tess and Claudia — are leaving and it feels like there's less to celebrate about the show."
The show has indeed faced numerous challenges recently, including a bullying probe and other scandals that have tarnished its reputation. Additionally, the departure of long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after the Christmas special has created uncertainty about the programme's future direction.
Speculation About New Hosts and Wider BAFTA Snubs
Speculation continues about who might replace the iconic hosting duo, with Rylan Clark being the latest star tipped for one of the roles. Clark has impressed audiences with his recent performances on This Morning, leading to suggestions he could be a ratings winner for the BBC crown jewel.
Strictly Come Dancing is not alone in being overlooked by this year's BAFTA nominations. Other notable absences include:
- I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! receiving no nominations in any category
- This Morning failing to make the Daytime nominations list
- Loose Women also being excluded from Daytime category consideration
Success Stories Elsewhere
While some established shows have been snubbed, others have enjoyed remarkable success in this year's nominations. Netflix drama Adolescence has been shortlisted for an impressive 11 awards, while BBC One's The Celebrity Traitors received five nominations.
Adolescence, which explores the online influence of toxic masculinity on young people, has been recognised in the limited drama category. Meanwhile, actresses Aimee Lou Wood and Erin Doherty have made BAFTA history by being nominated in both the Leading Actress and Supporting Actress categories for different shows — a first for the awards.
BAFTA's Perspective on the Nominations
Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA, reflected on the nominations, saying: "2025 has been an exceptional year for television, reflected in 124 nominated programmes that highlight the strength and originality of British storytelling."
The complete absence of Strictly Come Dancing from this year's BAFTA nominations represents a significant shift in the television landscape and raises questions about the future of one of Britain's most beloved entertainment programmes.
