British Soap Awards Future In Doubt After ITV Cancellation And New Reports
The future of the British Soap Awards remains uncertain after reports suggested the long running ceremony may not return following its previously announced 2026 break.
Earlier this year ITV confirmed that the British Soap Awards would not take place in 2026, describing the move as a break rather than a permanent cancellation. However, fresh reports published over the weekend have raised new questions about whether the ceremony could return in future years.
At the time of writing, ITV has not publicly issued a new statement regarding the long term future of the awards.
The reports have sparked widespread discussion among soap viewers and industry figures, with many expressing concern about the possible loss of one of British television’s most recognisable celebrations.
For more than 25 years, the British Soap Awards have honoured the achievements of Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks, recognising everyone from actors and writers to producers and behind the scenes production teams.
What ITV has officially confirmed
In February, ITV confirmed that the British Soap Awards would not be broadcast in 2026.
An ITV spokesperson said: “The British Soap Awards is taking a break and won’t be on air in 2026.”
That remains the broadcaster’s latest official public statement regarding the ceremony.
While recent reports have suggested the awards may not return beyond that break, ITV has not publicly confirmed those claims.
As a result, the future of the awards beyond 2026 remains unclear.
A major moment for British soaps
The uncertainty comes during a period that has seen several major milestones for the UK’s leading soap dramas.
Coronation Street and Emmerdale recently made television history with the ambitious Corriedale crossover, bringing characters from both soaps together for the first time.
EastEnders has continued to build on the momentum generated by its 40th anniversary celebrations, while Hollyoaks has undergone one of the biggest creative changes in its history following its time jump storyline.
For many viewers, these moments demonstrate why a dedicated soap awards ceremony still has an important role to play.
The British Soap Awards have traditionally provided an opportunity to celebrate achievements that often sit outside broader television award ceremonies.
Industry figures and viewers react
Reaction across social media has been swift.
Many viewers expressed disappointment at the prospect of losing an event dedicated entirely to the soap genre.
One viewer wrote: “Ridiculous! All the cast and crew do exceptional work and now they don’t get the recognition.”
Another commented: “Heartbreaking for those who work so hard to bring us the soaps.”
A third added: “Such a shame that the people in front and behind the camera won’t get the recognition for all their hard work.”
Among those reacting to the reports was well respected and brilliant soap journalist, screenwriter and author Chloe Timms.
Writing on X, Timms said: “This is such a huge loss for the ludicrously talented and hardworking teams behind every soap who deserve to be celebrated and rewarded.”
She added: “It’s a hugely difficult time for the TV industry so do show your support loud and proud for the stars and shows you love.”
Her comments echoed concerns shared by many viewers who believe the awards have always represented far more than a red carpet event.
For actors, writers, producers, directors, editors, camera operators and production teams, the ceremony has provided one of the few opportunities each year for the entire soap industry to be recognised together.
The remarkable history of the British Soap Awards
Since launching in 1999, the British Soap Awards have become one of the most established events in the television calendar.
The ceremony has recognised some of the biggest storylines, performances and television moments ever seen in British soaps.
EastEnders currently holds the record for the most Best British Soap victories, winning the top prize 13 times.
Coronation Street has won Best British Soap six times, while Emmerdale has claimed the title three times and Hollyoaks has won twice.
Although EastEnders leads the headline category, Coronation Street remains the most decorated programme in the awards’ history overall, collecting well over 100 awards across multiple categories.
The awards have also celebrated some of the genre’s most acclaimed performers, with stars such as Lacey Turner and Danny Miller among the ceremony’s most successful winners.
Across more than two decades, the awards have recognised everything from dramatic live episodes and major anniversaries to groundbreaking issue based storylines and memorable performances that helped shape British television.
Why the awards matter to viewers
Supporters of the ceremony argue that the British Soap Awards occupy a unique place within the television industry.
Unlike broader awards shows, the event focuses entirely on soap drama and the people responsible for creating it.
The awards have celebrated stories tackling subjects including cancer, dementia, domestic abuse, mental health, hate crime and LGBTQ+ representation, alongside the everyday drama that continues to attract millions of viewers each week.
For many viewers, the ceremony has become an annual opportunity to look back on the year’s biggest moments and recognise the work of the people both in front of and behind the camera.
What happens next?
For now, ITV’s confirmed position remains unchanged. The British Soap Awards will not take place in 2026.
Whether the ceremony returns in 2027, finds a new home elsewhere, or ultimately comes to an end remains unknown.
Until ITV provides further clarification, the future of the awards beyond 2026 remains uncertain.
What is clear from the reaction across social media is that many viewers and industry figures still believe there is a place for a dedicated celebration of British soap drama.
After more than 25 years of honouring some of the genre’s biggest achievements, many will be hoping that the story of the British Soap Awards is not over just yet.
