The much-postponed British Academy of Film and Television Arts’ (BAFTA) TV awards, honouring the best of British and international talent on the small screen, took place 31 July in a virtual ceremony, connecting presenters, nominees, and lucky winners from all around the globe. In what may be the format of awards shows for the foreseeable future, the event was televised from BBC TV Centre, hosted by Richard Ayoade with a special musical performance from Tim Minchin. Winners reacted and gave acceptance speeches via webcam.
Channel 4’s The End of the F***ing World earned the drama series prize, beating out The Crown, Gentleman Jack, and Giri/Haji. Stath Lets Flats, also from Channel 4, triumphed over Fleabag, Catastrophe, and Derry Girls for the top scripted comedy award. Best international program went to Netflix’s limited series When They See Us.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge of Fleabag was nominated for more than one BAFTA TV honour, and unexpectedly did not repeat her acting Emmy win of 2019; instead her co-star Sian Clifford earned the award for female performance in a comedy programme. Jared Harris of Chernobyl and Glenda Jackson of Elizabeth Is Missing took home leading acting prizes.
For his creative contributions to TV, Idris Elba received a BAFTA Special Award. The star of Luther and The Wire is the latest recipient of the prize that has gone to Nick Fraser, Lenny Henry, Delia Smith and Cilla Black.
For more on the Virgin Media British Academy Television Awards, visit bafta.org.
For more from Backstage UK, check out the magazine.