The National Television Awards (NTAs) return tonight to London's O2 Arena. Find out everything you need to know about the broadcast timing, the host, and the high-stakes nominations for 2026.

  • The ceremony takes place tonight from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM at the O2 Arena, London.
  • Live broadcast available on ITV1 and ITVX.
  • Hosted by comedian and presenter Joel Dommett.

The National Television Awards (NTAs) are back, bringing together the biggest stars of the small screen for a night of celebration and unexpected twists. Unlike many industry awards, the NTAs are unique because the winners are decided entirely by public vote, making it the ultimate barometer of popularity in the UK television landscape.

The event kicks off tonight at 8:00 PM and is scheduled to run for two and a half hours, concluding at 10:30 PM. For those unable to tune in live on ITV1 or ITVX, the network has confirmed that the full ceremony will be uploaded to ITVX later tonight for on-demand viewing.

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The Face of the Night: Joel Dommett

Taking center stage as the host is Joel Dommett, the versatile English comedian and actor. Having hosted the ceremony four times previously, Dommett brings a seasoned energy to the stage. His journey from early roles in 'Skins' to hosting 'The Masked Singer' has made him a household name, perfectly suited for the high-energy atmosphere of the O2 Arena.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the NTAs serve as a critical indicator of content viability for networks. In an era of fragmented viewership, the ability of a show to mobilize a voting fanbase is a powerful metric for advertisers and producers, proving that linear TV still possesses a massive, loyal community.

"The NTAs are the 'People's Choice' of the UK; they strip away critical pretension and reveal what the public actually loves."

The Battle for Glory: Nominations

The 2026 nominations feature a clash of titans. In the 'TV Presenter' category, the legendary Ant & Dec face stiff competition from Alison Hammond and David Attenborough. After their shocking loss last year—ending a 23-year winning streak—the tension is higher than ever.

Category Key Nominees/Shows
Reality Competition I’m A Celebrity, The Traitors
Returning Drama Bridgerton, Stranger Things, Blue Lights
Comedy Last One Laughing, Not Going Out
Did You Know?: The NTAs are one of the few major awards ceremonies where the winners are kept secret from the presenters until the moment the envelope is opened on stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Where can I watch the NTAs if I miss the live broadcast?
A: The full ceremony will be available for streaming on ITVX shortly after the event.

Q2: Who is hosting the red carpet this year?
A: Sam Thompson and Pete Wicks are returning for their third year on the red carpet.