Story perspectives

National Television Awards 2026 Set for September 8 at O2

8/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The National Television Awards 2026 will take place at London’s O2 Arena on Tuesday 8 September 2026, broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX at 20:00 BST.
The best drama performance category features the first ever all-female shortlist, naming Sheridan Smith, Ruth Jones, Vicky McClure, Ella Bruccoleri and Judy Parfitt.
Public voting opened on 18 August 2026 and must be submitted by midday on 8 September 2026 to decide winners in 15 categories.
Comedian Joel Dommett will host the ceremony for the sixth time.

History

Historical Context

After the BBC announced a 50:50 gender-parity pledge in 2015, the British Film Institute adopted the same 50/50 target in October 2017 and the #5050x2020 campaign spread across European film bodies. By 2019 the BBC recorded 48 % female presenters, and the 2026 ITV Awards shortlist, featuring Sheridan Smith and Ruth Jones, reflects that early pledge’s lasting influence.

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Story summary

The National Television Awards 2026 will take place at London’s O2 Arena on Tuesday 8 September 2026, broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX at 20:00 BST.
The best drama performance category features the first ever all-female shortlist, naming Sheridan Smith, Ruth Jones, Vicky McClure, Ella Bruccoleri and Judy Parfitt.
Public voting opened on 18 August 2026 and must be submitted by midday on 8 September 2026 to decide winners in 15 categories.
Comedian Joel Dommett will host the ceremony for the sixth time.

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