The British Academy Television Awards (BAFTA TV Awards) 2018 celebrated the best in British television, showcasing a diverse range of talent and programming. Held on May 13th, 2018, the ceremony was a star-studded event that rewarded excellence across various categories. This article delves into the key results, highlighting the significant wins and overall trends of the night.
Overall Winners and Key Moments
The biggest winner of the night was undoubtedly Three Girls, a hard-hitting drama about the Rochdale child sexual exploitation scandal. It swept several categories, including Best Mini-Series and Best Leading Actress for Molly Windsor. This win highlighted the BAFTA's commitment to recognizing impactful and socially relevant programming. Another standout performance was Jodie Comer's win for Best Supporting Actress in Killing Eve, showcasing the rising star's exceptional talent.
Other notable wins included Benedict Cumberbatch's award for Best Leading Actor in Patrick Melrose, demonstrating the continued recognition of strong performances in prestige dramas. The ceremony also saw recognition for a variety of genres, from the darkly comedic Black Mirror to the heartwarming Call the Midwife. The diversity of winners reflected the breadth and depth of quality television produced in the UK.
What Shows Were Nominated for Best Drama Series?
The Best Drama Series category is always highly anticipated, featuring a selection of the year's most critically acclaimed and popular dramas. In 2018, the nominees included:
- The Crown: Netflix's historical drama continued to garner acclaim for its meticulous production and performances.
- Line of Duty: The police procedural consistently delivered thrilling twists and compelling characters.
- Black Mirror: The anthology series continued its exploration of technology's impact on society with thought-provoking episodes.
- Bodyguard: This political thriller quickly became a massive hit, captivating audiences with its high-stakes plot.
- Peaky Blinders: The gangster drama maintained its popularity with its stylish visuals and compelling characters.
While Bodyguard ultimately won, the sheer strength of the nominees underlined the golden age of British television drama.
Who Won Best Comedy Programme?
The Best Comedy Programme category celebrated the funniest shows of the year. The winner in 2018 was Inside No. 9, a dark and often unsettling comedy series known for its anthology format and unpredictable twists. Its win showcased the BAFTA's appreciation for intelligent and creative comedy writing.
Which Show Won Best Mini-Series?
As previously mentioned, Three Girls took home the prestigious award for Best Mini-Series, a significant victory that highlighted the importance of tackling difficult social issues through compelling storytelling. The win resonated with audiences and critics alike, further cementing the show's legacy.
What were the other significant wins at the BAFTAs 2018?
Beyond the categories mentioned above, several other awards recognized exceptional talent and programming. Significant wins included accolades for:
- Best Supporting Actor: Ben Whishaw for A Very English Scandal.
- Best Single Drama: Damilola, Our Loved Boy.
- Best Reality and Constructed Factual: Planet Earth II.
- Best Entertainment Programme: Strictly Come Dancing.
These wins demonstrated the wide range of genres and styles celebrated by the BAFTA TV Awards.
Conclusion
The BAFTA TV Awards 2018 highlighted the exceptional quality and diversity of British television. From gripping dramas to innovative comedies, the ceremony celebrated a range of programs that captivated audiences and showcased the talent of the UK's creative industry. The wins reflected both popular success and critical acclaim, confirming the awards' position as a true indicator of excellence in television.
