A Night of Surprises at the RTS Awards
The 2024 Royal Television Society (RTS) Awards proved to be a night filled with unexpected victories and emotional tributes. Among the biggest shocks of the evening was BBC’s long-running medical drama Casualty taking home the prestigious Best Soap and Continuing Drama award, outshining major rivals such as EastEnders and Hollyoaks. The ceremony, held at London’s JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, was hosted by comedian and Cooking With The Stars presenter Tom Allen.
Casualty’s Triumph Over Tough Competition
In a category usually dominated by EastEnders or ITV’s Emmerdale, Casualty emerged as the dark horse. While Emmerdale failed to receive a nomination for the eighth consecutive year, Casualty managed to defy expectations. Even more surprising was the omission of ITV soaps from the shortlist altogether, raising eyebrows and reigniting debates around judging criteria.
The award was received with enthusiasm by the cast and crew, who celebrated the recognition of a series that has quietly built a loyal fanbase over decades. Often praised for its realistic portrayal of hospital emergencies and character-driven storytelling, Casualty has been a staple of British television since 1986.
Danny Dyer Wins Best Supporting Actor for Rivals
While EastEnders itself may have missed out, one of its most beloved former stars, Danny Dyer, had a triumphant evening. Dyer was awarded Best Supporting Actor for his role in the Disney+ drama Rivals, based on Jilly Cooper’s popular novel.
In a tightly contested category, he beat out Sonny Walker from Channel 4’s The Gathering and McKinley Belcher III from Netflix’s Eric. Dyer’s win marks a significant career milestone post-EastEnders and demonstrates his ability to cross over into more dramatic, prestige television roles.
Jessica Gunning Shines for Baby Reindeer
Netflix’s Baby Reindeer, inspired by real events and widely discussed for its intense performances, saw Jessica Gunning win Best Supporting Actress. Her powerful portrayal of a woman entangled in a complex psychological narrative won acclaim both on-screen and at the awards.
Gunning’s win continues a trend of Netflix series making waves at traditional British awards ceremonies, reflecting the streaming platform’s growing influence in the UK entertainment industry.
Claudia Winkleman Receives Outstanding Achievement Award
Beloved television presenter Claudia Winkleman was honored with the Outstanding Achievement Award, capping off an exceptional year in which she fronted several hit shows. Her work on The Traitors, Strictly Come Dancing, and Channel 4’s The Piano was recognized as having a transformative impact on British television.
Winkleman’s warm, engaging style and versatility as a presenter have cemented her as a household name. Her speech was met with a standing ovation and heartfelt cheers from industry peers.
The Traitors Dominates Entertainment Category
The BBC’s The Traitors continued its run of award wins, picking up the Best Entertainment Programme. The psychological reality competition beat out long-time fan favourites Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
The show, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, has become a phenomenon thanks to its innovative format and dramatic twists. Its combination of social strategy and intense group dynamics has captured public imagination and redefined reality TV expectations.
Josh Tedeku Wins Breakthrough Award for Boarders
Another highlight of the night was Josh Tedeku, who received the Breakthrough Award for his performance in the BBC comedy-drama Boarders. Tedeku’s nuanced and relatable portrayal of a working-class teenager adjusting to life at an elite boarding school resonated strongly with viewers and critics alike.
Tedeku’s acceptance speech acknowledged the importance of representation and diversity in mainstream television, emphasizing how stories like his character’s need to be seen and heard.
Other Notable Mentions and Industry Reactions
While some categories had clear frontrunners, others sparked debate among viewers and industry insiders. The continued absence of ITV soaps from the awards has prompted renewed calls for transparency in nomination processes and questions about whether certain genres are being overlooked.
Nonetheless, the night served as a powerful showcase for the diversity and talent in British television today. From gritty dramas and psychological thrillers to high-stakes reality shows and traditional soaps, the RTS Awards reflected a landscape of innovation and evolution.
Looking Ahead: What These Wins Mean for British TV
Casualty’s win may signal a turning tide in how continuing dramas are perceived. The show’s consistent dedication to telling powerful, socially relevant stories may finally be getting its due. Similarly, Danny Dyer’s success could pave the way for other soap actors transitioning to mainstream drama.
Claudia Winkleman’s achievement highlights the growing importance of charismatic presenters in shaping the tone and success of TV programming, while Jessica Gunning and Josh Tedeku embody the next generation of British acting talent ready to take centre stage.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
The 2024 RTS Awards will be remembered not just for its surprises, but for the ways in which it celebrated the broad spectrum of talent and creativity flourishing in UK television. With Casualty, Danny Dyer, and Claudia Winkleman taking top honors, the event demonstrated that longevity, reinvention, and genuine passion for the craft continue to define success in the industry.
As British television continues to evolve, awards like the RTS provide both recognition and inspiration—reminding audiences and creators alike that great storytelling can emerge from any corner of the screen.
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