Viewers tuning in to this year’s National Television Awards expressed strong disappointment over a perceived snub of a particular TV personality. Many were incensed by the continued lack of recognition for a longstanding TV presenter, questioning what more they needed to do to secure an award. Former Match of the Day host Gary Lineker ended a 24-year winning streak by Ant and Dec, causing a stir among viewers.
Despite Lineker’s victory, other nominees in the same category were viewed as more deserving by some NTA viewers. Many believed that Claudia Winkleman should have been awarded Best TV Presenter, expressing surprise and frustration over her loss. Ant and Dec’s dominance in the category, having won every year from 2000 to 2024, was finally broken by Lineker this year, though some viewers still felt Winkleman was unfairly passed over.
Social media platforms buzzed with fans expressing their reactions, with one fan questioning why Winkleman had not won yet, while another expressed disappointment that it wasn’t her who ended Ant and Dec’s winning streak. Some viewers were relieved to see a new face take home the award after 24 consecutive wins by the popular duo.
Lineker, who confirmed that the 2024/25 football season would be his last presenting Match of the Day, has since departed from the show, which is now covering the 2025/26 season. The surprising win prompted calls for a recount from disbelieving fans who believed Winkleman should have been victorious.
Winkleman, a three-time nominee for Best TV Presenter, received nods in 2023, 2024, and 2025. In addition, she was also nominated for a BAFTA TV Award and a Royal Television Award this year. The ongoing debate over the award results has sparked intense discussions among fans and industry observers.