Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the BAFTA Television Craft Awards.
Tonight is about celebrating you, the extraordinary people behind the camera — the designers, editors and producers; the writers, directors and technicians; the teams whose imagination, skill and dedication turn ideas into television that resonates with audiences everywhere.
Television has never mattered more. It informs us, challenges us and comforts us. It brings us together. 2025 has been an exceptional year for television, reflected in the 124 nominated programmes that speak to the strength, originality and ambition of British storytelling. From powerful documentaries and standout comedy, to homegrown drama and international series that captured global attention, this year’s nominees confirm that television is in outstanding health.
However, we also know that this has not been an easy time for our industry. The last few years have demanded resilience, flexibility and determination — particularly from freelancers. Budgets are tighter, commissioning practices are evolving and uncertainty remains. And yet, the work we are celebrating tonight is bold, ambitious and assured. And that is testament to the people in this room.
As an industry, we are also thinking more deeply about responsibility — in the stories we tell, the teams we build and the way we work. That is why it feels especially fitting this evening to mark the 15th anniversary of BAFTA Albert.
Since 2011, BAFTA Albert has worked alongside the screen industries to turn the power of storytelling into meaningful climate action — behind the scenes, on screen and beyond. Many of you here tonight will have achieved BAFTA Albert certification, reducing environmental impact while continuing to deliver compelling, award-winning television.
That commitment is growing. Applications to BAFTA Albert increased by 25 per cent in 2025, and 2026 is already shaping up to be a record year — with more productions than ever choosing to take part, make change and lead by example. Sustainable production is another area where UK television is setting standards, and I want to thank you for your leadership, innovation and your dedication.
At BAFTA, our role goes beyond awards. We work to build an industry that is inclusive, resilient and sustainable — now and for the future. We are committed to widening opportunity across the industry — not just because it is the right thing to do, but because television is at its best when the workforce and the work on screen reflect the audience they serve. That means improving gender balance in key craft roles, disability access and representation, and supporting talent from underrepresented communities. At BAFTA, we play our part through our talent programmes, including Breakthrough and Elevate, through our bursaries and scholarships, and by continuing to broaden and diversify our membership.
Before I close, I want to thank Jane Millichip, BAFTA’s exceptional CEO, and the whole BAFTA team. Hilary Rosen, BAFTA’s outstanding TV Committee Chair, in addition to the TV Committee, Juries, Chapters, and Voting members who volunteer their time, insight and experience so generously to BAFTA.
We are delighted to welcome Samsung OLED as the headline partner of the BAFTA Television Craft Awards and thank them for their support in recognising exceptional craft and the brilliant people behind it. And of course, our generous donors and partners, who make tonight possible.
And finally – tonight’s nominees. Congratulations and the best of luck!
It’s a pleasure to have Maisie Adam as our host this evening — her warmth and sharp humour will make it a night to remember. I know you’ll give her a very warm welcome.
And before we welcome our brilliant host, let’s pause and look back at the extraordinary work and the achievements we celebrate tonight.
Thank you.
