Gary Lineker, the renowned former England footballer and celebrated television presenter, has received a noteworthy nomination for the upcoming National Television Awards (NTAs), marking his first nomination in this prestigious ceremony since 2017. The announcement of his nomination comes in light of his recent departure from the long-running BBC program, “Match of the Day,” which he hosted for an impressive 26 years. Lineker’s exit from the show was finalized following the conclusion of the Premier League season in May 2025, further punctuated by a series of controversies stemming from his activity on social media platforms.
The National Television Awards have become a significant event in the television calendar, where the public votes for their favorite shows and personalities across various categories. Lineker’s nomination positions him alongside other well-known television icons, including the celebrated duo Ant & Dec, television personality Alison Hammond, and fellow presenters Claudia Winkleman and Stacey Solomon. Given Ant & Dec’s long-standing dominance in the category—having won the award for best TV presenter for 23 consecutive years—Lineker’s nomination is viewed as a potential upset. With the ceremony scheduled for September, viewers and fans alike are eagerly anticipating the results.
The sentiment surrounding Lineker’s nomination reflects not just his illustrious career in football and television but also the public’s interest in his recent departure from the BBC amid growing concerns regarding his social media commentary. This situation has unfolded against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny on public figures and their responsibilities online. The circumstances leading to his exit have undoubtedly influenced public perception and support, contributing to a renewed interest in his potential to reclaim the spotlight.
In addition to Lineker’s nomination, the NTAs have recognized the series “Adolescence,” which has garnered substantial acclaim and is up for three awards. One particular highlight from this series is the competition within the cast, as on-screen father and son duo Stephen Graham and Owen Cooper are both nominated for the best drama performance category. This touted matchup has synthesized special viewer interest given the familial dynamic portrayed on-screen.
Moreover, the nominations reflect a broader range of popular television programming this year. Satirically poignant and socially resonant, “Adolescence” is not the only standout as the finale of “Gavin and Stacey” continues to reaffirm its cultural impact after drawing in more than 20 million viewers during the Christmas broadcast. Its appeal has positioned it as a frontrunner in the comedy category, showcasing the series’ nostalgia and widespread love among the audience.
The nomination pool also highlights Michael McIntyre and Stacey Solomon, each with three nominations. Solomon’s groundbreaking shows “Sort Your Life Out” and “Stacey & Joe” have secured two nominations each for the best factual entertainment show category, reflecting the growing public appetite for such programming that combines entertainment with impactful content.
The National Television Awards promise to be an exciting event, as the public will have the ultimate say in who takes home these coveted awards. The various categories range from reality competitions like “I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” and “Love Island” to returning dramas like “Call the Midwife” and “Gangs of London.” This year, the awards will also feature categories such as the Bruce Forsyth Entertainment Award and serial drama performance, showcasing a varied tapestry of British television talent and storytelling.
In summary, the anticipation surrounding the NTAs in September 2025 not only revolves around Lineker’s potential to disrupt the long-standing dominance of Ant & Dec but also speaks to the evolving landscape of television. The show has the power to celebrate new storytelling trends and highlight the shifting dynamics within the industry as viewers reflect on their favorite talents and productions. The event promises to honor the best of British television while setting the stage for future narratives that resonate with audiences across the nation.
