The nominations highlight a strong year for Irish talent and compelling storytelling across various genres.
Category: Arts & Culture
Irish actor Philippa Dunne has garnered her first BAFTA nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy for her role on the sitcom Amandaland, highlighting a strong showing for Irish talent at the upcoming BAFTA TV Awards. The awards, set to take place on May 10, 2026, will be hosted by comedian Greg Davies and promise to celebrate a diverse array of programming.
Amandaland, a spin-off from the acclaimed series Motherland, has also been nominated for Best Scripted Comedy, with Dunne’s co-stars Lucy Punch and Jennifer Saunders receiving nods for their performances. Dunne's nomination marks a notable achievement for the actress, who plays Anne, a character that has resonated with audiences for her humor and depth.
Meanwhile, the BBC’s Blue Lights, a gripping police drama set against the backdrop of Belfast, has been nominated for Best Drama. The series has not only captivated viewers but has also earned recognition for its portrayal of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the challenges faced by officers. Siân Brooke, who plays Grace, has been nominated for Leading Actress for her compelling performance.
Channel 4's Trespasses, an adaptation of Louise Kennedy’s novel that delves into the complex themes surrounding the Troubles, has received a nomination for Best Limited Drama Series, adding to the evening's focus on powerful narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences. The show has garnered six nominations, including accolades for its writing and direction.
On the entertainment front, The Graham Norton Show continues to be a staple of British television, earning a nomination for Best Entertainment Programme. Notably, Graham Norton himself did not receive a nomination for Best Entertainment Performance this year, breaking his streak of recognition. The show is up against stiff competition from Last One Laughing, Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, and Would I Lie to You?.
Adding to the excitement, a sequence from Blue Lights, where characters confront the threat of an ambush, has been nominated for the Memorable Moment Award, which is voted on by the public. This highlights the show's gripping storytelling and its impact on viewers.
Stephen Graham leads the nominations with an impressive total of 18 nominations across two projects: 11 for the Netflix drama Adolescence and seven for the Disney+ series A Thousand Blows. His performances have been widely acclaimed, establishing him firmly within the industry. Adolescence has been particularly noted for its raw and honest portrayal of teenage life, echoing with both critics and audiences alike.
Other nominees at the BAFTA TV Awards include the Star Wars series Andor, which has also received six nominations, alongside Trespasses. The reality show The Celebrity Traitors has earned five nominations, including Best Reality Series and Best Entertainment Performance for host Claudia Winkleman. The show has become a fan favorite, particularly for its engaging format and entertaining contestants.
Among the nominees for the Soap Award, EastEnders, Coronation Street, and Casualty are all competing for top honors, demonstrating the continued popularity and cultural significance of soap operas within British television.
BAFTA chief executive Jane Millichip expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s nominations, stating, “From powerful documentaries and standout comedy to homegrown drama and the international series that captured global attention, this year’s nominees demonstrate a medium at its creative peak. It’s especially exciting to see so many first-time performance nominees, which showcases the vibrant new talent shaping the future of our industry.”
With a total of 11 nominations, Adolescence has been recognized for its ensemble cast, including acting nods for Graham, Owen Cooper, Ashley Walters, Erin Doherty, and Christine Tremarco. The show has been praised for its authentic representation of the teenage experience, tackling issues such a mental health and identity with sensitivity.
A Thousand Blows, which has received seven nominations, is also making waves, with Erin Doherty nominated for her performance, solidifying her status among the rising stars of British television. The series explores historical themes through a modern lens, engaging viewers with its innovative storytelling.
Both Trespasses and Blue Lights have made strides for Irish narratives on mainstream platforms, emphasizing the importance of diverse storytelling within the television industry. With the BAFTA ceremony approaching, the anticipation is building around which shows and performances will take home coveted awards.
The BAFTA TV Awards 2026 promises to be a celebration of creativity and talent, with a spotlight on both established and new voices. The event will honor the nominees and serve to inspire future generations of storytellers.
With the awards ceremony drawing near, the excitement will continue to build, particularly for Dunne and her fellow nominees. The recognition of their work reflects a broader trend of increasing appreciation for quality programming across genres, and the event is set to showcase the best of what television has to offer.
Fans and industry insiders alike will be watching closely on May 10, 2026, to see how the night will play out and which performances will be celebrated among the best of the best.