Introduction
The BAFTA TV Awards 2025 promised glamor, prestige, and recognition for the best of British television. But what unfolded on the night left fans scratching their heads and Twitter ablaze. From Danny Dyer’s complete snub to baffling wins and glaring omissions, the ceremony has sparked widespread debate and disappointment. Here are the top 7 mistakes that made the 2025 BAFTAs unforgettable—for all the wrong reasons.
1. Danny Dyer Deserved Nothing?
Despite a powerful performance in “The Long Walk Home”, fan-favorite Danny Dyer walked away empty-handed. Social media erupted with disbelief, with many calling it a “career-best” role. The snub feels especially harsh given the actor’s huge public following and consistent ratings success.
2. Comedy Categories Felt Like a Joke
Critics and fans alike were stunned when “McMirth’s Misadventures” beat out “Motherland” and “Derry Girls”. The winner received lukewarm reviews throughout the season, raising eyebrows over voting integrity and taste preferences.
3. Diversity Talk, But Little Action
Although BAFTA highlighted diversity in its pre-show messaging, many noticed the lack of representation in major wins. Viewers questioned whether the organization’s stated commitment to inclusion was more performative than practical.
4. The Inexplicable Win for “Steel Hearts”
“Steel Hearts” was largely panned by critics and audiences for its melodrama and lack of nuance, yet it clinched Best Drama. Competing shows like “Blue Manor” and “Silk Street” were considered frontrunners but walked away empty-handed.
5. Technical Awards Rushed Off-Screen
Sound design, editing, and cinematography were lumped together in a 45-second montage, drawing criticism from industry professionals. These behind-the-scenes roles are vital to storytelling, yet they were treated as an afterthought.
6. No Love for Newcomers
Several breakout stars like Amara Davis and Leon Grant were left out of the nominations altogether. Their performances in “Wren’s Fall” and “Undercut” were widely praised but seemingly invisible to the voting body.
7. The Host’s Tone-Deaf Monologue
Opening the night with jokes about streaming fatigue and BBC cuts, the host’s monologue felt dated and disconnected from the audience’s mood. Many felt the humor missed the mark and set an awkward tone for the rest of the show.
Conclusion
While the BAFTA TV Awards 2025 had moments of glamor and celebration, the night will be remembered more for its baffling decisions and public backlash. Danny Dyer’s snub, in particular, will likely go down in BAFTA history as one of the most unjust omissions in recent memory. Whether the organization will take criticism on board remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: British TV fans won’t forget this night anytime soon.
Looking for more awards drama? Check out our round-up of the biggest Oscar 2025 controversies.
