Royal Television Society Programme Awards

(Redirected from RTS Programme Awards)

The Royal Television Society Programme Awards, (often referred to as the RTS Awards) seek to recognise programmes or individuals who have made a positive and material contribution to their genre: either because their content or originality in form has in some way moved the genre forward, or perhaps even created a new genre; or because their quality has set standards which other programme-makers can emulate and learn from.

RTS Programme Awards
Current: #2024 winners
Actor Danny Murphy in 2020 with an RTS regional award for Rising Star
Sponsored byAudio Network
DateMarch 2022 (2022-03)
LocationGrosvenor House Hotel, London
CountryUnited Kingdom and Ireland
Hosted byTom Allen
First awarded1975; 49 years ago (1975)
Websiterts.org.uk/awards/programme-awards

In addition to the national awards and the Craft & Design Awards, the Royal Television Society also hosts a number of regional award ceremonies throughout the UK and Ireland.[1]

Award categories

The original Royal Television Society Programme Awards can be traced back to 1975, when there were just seven categories. In 1989, the categories were revised and awards in these new categories conferred for the award year of 1988. It was also in this year that nominations for some categories were introduced for the very first time. Since 2016, the awards have been primarily focussed on home-grown output, with Fargo, the final winner of the International category in 2015. In 2023, the number of award categories stood at 30.

Controversies

In February 2017 broadcaster Piers Morgan pulled out as host after only three days, citing a public campaign branding him as damaging and inappropriate for the event.[2][3]

Judging

The RTS Programme Awards winners are selected not by public vote but decided via judging panels composed of industry experts and professionals. In 2016 the make up of the judging panels was adjusted to include more women and people from minority backgrounds. From approximately 200 jurors, 52% were now female and 27% from BAME backgrounds. The move towards more diversity came in the wake of the #OscarsSoWhite campaign.[4] At the time of the 2020 awards, the overall jury composition was 56% female and 32% came from BAME backgrounds.[5]

Winners: 1998–present

2024 winners

Presented: 26 March 2024 – Host: Tom Allen
AwardWinners[6]Nominees[7]
ArtsFight the Power: How Hip Hop Changed the World (BBC Studios Specialist Factual Productions for BBC)
Breakthrough AwardLucy Edwards - Japan - The Way I See ItThe Travel Show (BBC Current Affairs for BBC)
Children's ProgramA Kind of Spark (9 Story Media for BBC)
Comedy DramaJuice (Various Artists Limited for BBC)
Comedy EntertainmentRob & Romesh Vs. (CPL Productions for Sky Max)
Comedy Performance: FemaleGbemisola Ikumelo - Black Ops (BBC Studios Comedy Productions and Mondo Deluxe Productions for BBC)
Comedy Performance: MaleHammed Animashaun - Black Ops (BBC Studios Comedy Productions and Mondo Deluxe Productions for BBC)
  • Freddie Meredith - Such Brave Girls (Various Artists Limited for BBC)
  • Jon Pointing - Big Boys (Roughcut TV for Channel 4)
Daytime ProgramScam Interceptors (BBC Studios Documentary Unit for BBC)
Documentary SeriesOnce Upon a Time in Northern Ireland (KEO Films & Walk on Air Films for BBC)
  • Evacuation (Wonderhood Studios for Channel 4)
  • Kids (Expectation for Channel 4)
Drama SeriesHappy Valley (Lookout Point in co-production with AMC for BBC)
EntertainmentSquid Game: The Challenge (Studio Lambert & The Garden for Netflix)
Entertainment PerformanceHannah Waddingham - Eurovision Song Contest 2023 (BBC Studios Entertainment Productions, Windfall Films for BBC)
Formatted Popular FactualSort Your Life Out (Optomen for BBC)
HistoryWhite Nanny, Black Child (Doc Hearts/Tigerlily Productions for Channel 5)
  • Britain's Human Zoos (Red Bicycle with Milk & Honey for Channel 4)
  • The Man Who Played With Fire (Raw TV for Sky Documentaries)
Leading Actor: FemaleTamara Lawrance - Time (BBC Studios Drama Productions for BBC)
Leading Actor: MaleKane Robinson - Top Boy (Cowboy Films, Easter Partisan Films, Dream Crew and SpringHill Entertainment for Netflix)
Limited-SeriesThe Sixth Commandment (Wild Mercury Productions and True Vision for BBC)
Live EventEurovision Song Contest 2023 (BBC Studios Entertainment Productions, Windfall Films for BBC)
  • The Coronation Concert (BBC Studios Event Productions for BBC)
  • The Coronation of TM The King and Queen Camilla (BBC Studios Event Productions for BBC)
PresenterChris Packham - Inside Our Autistic Minds (BBC Studios Specialist Factual Productions for BBC)
  • Rhod Gilbert - Rhod Gilbert: A Pain in the Neck (Kailash Films & Llanbobl Vision for Channel 4)
  • Stacey Solomon - Sort Your Life Out (Optomen Television for BBC)
Science & The Natural WorldChimp Empire (Keo Films and Underdog Films for Netflix)
  • Inside Our Autistic Minds (BBC Studios Specialist Factual Productions for BBC)
  • Planet Earth III (BBC Studios Natural History Unit, BBC America, ZDF, France Televisions and The Open University for BBC)
Scripted ComedyExtraordinary (Sid Gentle Films Ltd for Disney+)
  • Black Ops (BBC Studios Comedy Productions and Mondo Deluxe Productions for BBC)
  • Such Brave Girls (Various Artists Limited for BBC)
Single DocumentaryOtto Baxter: Not A F***ing Horror Story (Story Films; Archface Films for Sky Documentaries)
  • Anorexic (Proper Content for Channel 5)
  • The Price of Truth (Oxford Film & Television for Channel 4)
Single DramaPartygate (Halcyons Heart Films for Channel 4)
  • Consent (Firebird Pictures for Channel 4)
  • Men Up (Quay Street Productions, Boom for BBC)
Soap and Continuing DramaEastEnders (BBC Studios Drama Productions for BBC)
  • Casualty (BBC Studios Drama Productions for BBC)
  • Waterloo Road (Rope Ladder Fiction, Wall to Wall for BBC)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditAlex Scott - FIFA Women’s World Cup (IMG for BBC)
Sports ProgramAll Ireland Senior Football Championship Final (BBC Northern Ireland for BBC)
Supporting Actor – FemaleBella Ramsey - Time (BBC Studios Drama Productions for BBC)
Supporting Actor – MaleÉanna Hardwicke - The Sixth Commandment (Wild Mercury Productions and True Vision for BBC)
  • Araloyin Oshunremi - Top Boy (Cowboy Films, Easter Partisan Films, Dream Crew and SpringHill Entertainment for Netflix)
  • Mark Gatiss - Nolly (Quay Street Productions for ITVX)
Writer – ComedyJack Rooke - Big Boys (Roughcut TV for Channel 4)
Writer – DramaSarah Phelps - The Sixth Commandment (Wild Mercury Productions and True Vision for BBC)
  • Emma Dennis-Edwards - Consent (Firebird Pictures for Channel 4)
  • Sally Wainwright - Happy Valley (Lookout Point in co-production with AMC for BBC)

2023 winners

This year saw the introduction of two new performance categories: supporting actor male and supporting actor female.

Presented: 28 March 2023 – Host: Tom Allen
AwardWinners[8]Nominees[9]
Outstanding Achievement AwardSarah Lancashire
Judges' AwardCharlotte Moore (BBC)
ArtsThe Evolution of Black British Music (BET UK)
  • The Ghost of Richard Harris (Sky Arts)
  • This Is Joan Collins (BBC)
Breakthrough AwardLenny RushAm I Being Unreasonable? (BBC One)
Children's ProgramDodger (CBBC)
  • COP27: Six Ways to Save Our Planet (Sky Kids / Sky News)
  • Corpse Talk (YouTube Originals)
Comedy DramaBrassic (Sky Max)
Comedy EntertainmentFriday Night Live (Channel 4)
Comedy Performance: FemaleDaisy May Cooper as Nic in Am I Being Unreasonable? (BBC One)
Comedy Performance: MaleLenny Rush as Ollie in Am I Being Unreasonable? (BBC One)
Daytime ProgramLoose Men (ITV)
Documentary SeriesGazza (BBC Two)
  • Big Oil vs The World (BBC Two)
  • Jeremy Kyle Show: Death On Daytime (Channel 4)
Drama SeriesSherwood (BBC One)
EntertainmentThe Traitors (BBC One)
Entertainment PerformanceClaudia WinklemanThe Traitors (BBC One)
Formatted Popular FactualGogglebox (Channel 4)
HistoryOur Falklands War: A frontline story (BBC Two)
  • Aids: The Unheard Tapes (BBC Two)
  • Italia 90: Four Weeks that Changed the World (Sky Documentaries)
Leading Actor: FemaleKate Winslet as Ruth in I Am Ruth (Channel 4)
Leading Actor: MaleKit Connor as Nick Nelson in Heartstopper (Netflix)
Limited-SeriesMood (BBC Three)
Live EventThe State Funeral of HM The Queen Elizabeth II (BBC)
PresenterRamita NavaiAfghanistan: No Country for Women (ITV)
Science & The Natural WorldThe Green Planet (BBC One)
  • My Dead Body (Channel 4)
  • My Garden of a Thousand Bees (Sky Nature)
Scripted ComedyDerry Girls (Channel 4)
Single DocumentaryThe Tinder Swindler (Netflix)
  • Dying to Divorce (Sky Documentaries)
  • Will Young: Losing My Twin Rupert (Channel 4)
Single DramaLife and Death in the Warehouse (BBC Three)
Soap and Continuing DramaCasualty (BBC One)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditAde Adepitan2022 Winter Paralympics (Channel 4)
Sports ProgramBirmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games (BBC Sport)
Supporting Actor – FemaleAmbika Mod as Shruti Acharya in This Is Going to Hurt (BBC One)
Supporting Actor – MaleAdeel Akhtar as Andy Fisher in Sherwood (BBC One)
Writer – ComedyLisa McGee for Derry Girls (Channel 4)
Writer – DramaLucy Prebble for I Hate Suzie Too (Sky Atlantic)

2022 winners[10][11][12]

This year saw the return to a live audience event after the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. Comedian Graham Norton was presented the outstanding achievement award for 2020 which he had been unable to collect at that time due to having COVID-19.

Presented: 29 March 2022 – Host: Tom Allen
AwardWinnersNominees[13]
Outstanding Achievement Award 2020Graham Norton (awarded retroactively)
Outstanding Achievement AwardJack Thorne
Judges' AwardStrictly Come Dancing (BBC One)
Actor: FemaleGabrielle Creevy as Bethan in In My Skin (BBC Three)
Actor: MaleCallum Scott Howells as Colin "Gladys Pugh" Morris-Jones in It's a Sin (Channel 4)
ArtsLady Boss: The Jackie Collins Story (BBC)
Breakthrough AwardAdjani Salmon – Dreaming Whilst Black (BBC Three)
Children's ProgrammeThe Rubbish World of Dave Spud (CITV)
Comedy EntertainmentThe Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan (Channel 4)
Comedy Performance: FemaleAnjana Vasan as Amina in We Are Lady Parts (Channel 4)
Comedy Performance: MaleSamson Kayo as Maleek in Bloods (Sky Comedy)
Daytime ProgrammeThe Great House Giveaway (Channel 4)
Documentary Series9/11: One Day in America (National Geographic / Hulu)
  • Undercover Police: Hunting Paedophiles (Channel 4)
  • Liverpool Narcos (Sky Documentaries)
Drama SeriesIn My Skin (BBC Three)
EntertainmentThe Big Breakfast (Channel 4)
Entertainment PerformanceAJ Odudu and Mo GilliganThe Big Breakfast (Channel 4)
Formatted Popular FactualThe Dog House (Channel 4)
HistoryUprising (BBC Two)
Live EventThe Earthshot Prize 2021 (BBC)
Limited SeriesIt's a Sin (Channel 4)
PresenterMunya ChawawaRace Around Britain (YouTube Originals)
RTS Network of the YearBBC One
Science & Natural HistoryDavid Harewood – Why is Covid Killing People of Colour? (BBC)
  • Horizon: "The Vaccine" (BBC Two)
  • Baby Surgeons: Delivering Miracles (Channel 4)
Scripted ComedyAlma's Not Normal (BBC Two)
Single DocumentaryRape: Who's on Trial? (Channel 4)
Single DramaHelp (Channel 4)
Soap and Continuing DramaHollyoaks (Channel 4)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditGary NevilleSky Sports Premier League (Sky Sports)
Sports ProgrammeTokyo 2020 Olympics (BBC Sport)
Writer: ComedyNida Manzoor for We Are Lady Parts (Channel 4)
Writing: DramaRussell T Davies for It's a Sin (Channel 4)

2021 winners[14][15]

For the second year running, due to COVID-19 related restrictions the 2021 winners ceremony was held behind closed doors and without a live audience. In 2021 a new award category for comedy entertainment programme was established. A special award was bestowed on John McVay, Sara Geater, Max Rumney, Hakan Kousetta and their team at PACT (Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television) in this year to recognise the difficulties and challenges for the independent production sector during the pandemic year.

Presented: 16 March 2021 (livestreamed event)[16] – Host: Jonathan Ross
AwardWinnersNominees[17]
Outstanding Achievement AwardRussell T Davies
Judges' AwardAnne Mensah
Special AwardPACT (John McVay, Sara Geater, Max Rumney, Hakan Kousetta and team)
Actor: FemaleMichaela Coel as Arabella Essiedu in I May Destroy You (BBC One)
Actor: MaleShaun Parkes as Frank Crichlow in Small Axe (BBC One)
ArtsGrayson's Art Club (Channel 4)
Breakthrough AwardMae MartinFeel Good (Channel 4)
Children's ProgrammeIRL with Team Charlene (CITV)
Comedy EntertainmentThe Ranganation (BBC Two)
Comedy Performance: FemaleGbemisola Ikumelo as various characters in Famalam (BBC Three)
Comedy Performance: MaleYoussef Kerkour as Sami Ibrahim in Home (Channel 4)
Daytime ProgrammeLoose Women (ITV)
Documentary SeriesOnce Upon a Time in Iraq (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesIn My Skin (BBC Three)
EntertainmentThe Masked Singer (ITV)
Entertainment PerformanceBig Narstie & Mo GilliganThe Big Narstie Show (Channel 4)
Formatted Popular FactualJoe Lycett's Got Your Back (Channel 4)
HistoryDamilola: The Boy Next Door (Channel 4)
  • Lost Home Movies of Nazi Germany (BBC Four)
  • The World's Biggest Murder Trial: Nuremberg (Channel 5)
Live EventThe Third Day: "Autumn" (Sky Atlantic / HBO)
Mini SeriesI May Destroy You (BBC One)
PresenterJoe LycettThe Great British Sewing Bee (BBC One)
RTS Channel of the YearBBC One
Science & Natural HistoryThe Surgeon's Cut (Netflix)
  • Surviving the Virus: My Brother & Me (BBC One)
  • Brain Surgeons: Between Life and Death (Channel 4)
Scripted ComedyThe Young Offenders (BBC Three / RTÉ)
Single DocumentaryAnton Ferdinand: Football, Racism & Me (BBC One)
  • Surviving Covid (Channel 4)
  • The Family Secret (Channel 4)
Single DramaElizabeth Is Missing (BBC One)
Soap and Continuing DramaCasualty (BBC One)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditMichael HoldingEngland v West Indies (Sky Sports)
Sports ProgrammeEngland v West Indies First Test: "Black Lives Matter" (Sky Sports)
Writer: ComedyMae Martin and Joe Hampson for Feel Good (Channel 4)
Writing: DramaMichaela Coel for I May Destroy You (BBC One)

2020 winners[18]

Due to COVID-19 related restrictions the 2020 winners ceremony was held behind closed doors and without a live audience.[19] The outstanding achievement award was not awarded as comedian Graham Norton had COVID-19, (it would be retroactively awarded in 2022 once the ceremony returned as a live audience event).

Presented: 17 March 2020 (livestreamed event)[20] – Host: Paul Merton
AwardWinnersNominees
Outstanding Achievement AwardGraham Norton (not awarded)
Judges' AwardJane Featherstone
Actor: FemaleTamara Lawrance as July in The Long Song (BBC One)
Actor: MaleStephen Graham as Joseph in The Virtues (Channel 4)
ArtsBros: After the Screaming Stops (BBC Four)
  • Imagine: "James Graham - In the Room Where It Happens" (BBC One)
  • Superkids: Breaking Away From Care (Channel 4)
Breakthrough AwardTanya MoodieMotherland (BBC Two)
Children's ProgrammeZog (BBC One)
Comedy Performance: FemaleSaoirse-Monica Jackson as Erin Quinn in Derry Girls (Channel 4)
Comedy Performance: MaleNcuti Gatwa as Eric Effiong in Sex Education (Netflix)
Daytime ProgrammeThe Repair Shop (BBC Two)
Documentary SeriesThe Choir: Our School By The Tower (BBC Two)
  • Crime and Punishment (Channel 4)
  • Hometown: A Killing (BBC Three)
Drama SeriesGentleman Jack (BBC One)
EntertainmentRuPaul's Drag Race UK (BBC Three)
Entertainment PerformanceLondon HughesDon't Hate The Playaz (ITV2)
Formatted Popular FactualThe British Tribe Next Door (Channel 4)
HistoryJade: The Reality Star Who Changed Britain (Channel 4)
Live EventStormzy at Glastonbury 2019 (BBC Two)
Mini SeriesThe Long Song (BBC One)
PresenterMobeen AzharHometown: A Killing (BBC Three)
RTS Channel of the YearChannel 5
Science & Natural HistoryThe Parkinson's Drug Trial: A Miracle Cure? (BBC Two)
  • 8 Days: To the Moon and Back (BBC Two)
  • The Planets (BBC Two)
Scripted ComedyFleabag (BBC One)
Single DocumentaryWar in the Blood (BBC Two)
Single DramaThe Left Behind (BBC Three / BBC Wales)
Soap and Continuing DramaCasualty (BBC One)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditAlex Scott2019 FIFA Women's World Cup (BBC One)
Sports ProgrammeICC Cricket World Cup Final (Sky Sports)
Writer: ComedyPhoebe Waller-Bridge for Fleabag (BBC One)
Writing: DramaCraig Mazin for Chernobyl (Sky Atlantic / HBO)

2019 winners[21][22]

In 2019 the comedy performance award was split into two (male and female) for the first time.

Presented: 19 March 2019 – Host: Shappi Khorsandi
AwardWinnersNominees[23]
Outstanding Achievement AwardLorraine Kelly
Judges' AwardBen Frow
Actor: FemaleJodie Comer as Oksana Astankova / Villanelle in Killing Eve (BBC Three)
Actor: MaleLucian Msamati as Tobi Akindele Kiri (Channel 4)
ArtsThe Art of Drumming (Sky Arts)
Breakthrough AwardNabhaan RizwanInformer (BBC One)
Children's ProgrammeProsiect Z (S4C)
Comedy Performance: FemaleLesley Manville as Cathy Walker in Mum (BBC Two)
Comedy Performance: MaleSteve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith as various characters in Inside No. 9 (BBC Two)
Daytime ProgrammeThe Repair Shop (BBC Two)
Documentary SeriesPrison (Channel 4)
  • Drugsland (BBC Three)
  • Love and Hate Crime (BBC One)
Drama SeriesSave Me (Sky Atlantic)
EntertainmentThe Last Leg (Channel 4)
Entertainment PerformanceBig Narstie & Mo GilliganThe Big Narstie Show (Channel 4)
Formatted Popular FactualThe Real Full Monty: Ladies Night (ITV)
HistoryA Dangerous Dynasty: The House of Assad (BBC Two)
Live EventThe Royal Wedding: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (BBC)
Mini SeriesA Very English Scandal (BBC One)
PresenterRomesh RanganathanThe Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan (BBC Two)
RTS Channel of the YearCBeebies
Science & Natural HistoryDrowning in Plastic (BBC One)
  • Blue Planet II (BBC One)
  • The Secret Life of Landfill: A Rubbish History (BBC Four)
Scripted ComedyDerry Girls (Channel 4)
Single DocumentaryRaped: My Story (Channel 5)
  • Grenfell (BBC One)
  • Married to a Paedophile (Channel 4)
Single DramaKilled by My Debt (BBC Three)
Soap and Continuing DramaHollyoaks (Channel 4)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditOsi UmenyioraThe NFL Show/NFL This Week (BBC Two)
Sports ProgrammeMOTD: "2018 World Cup - Quarter Final – England v Sweden" (BBC One)
Writer: ComedyStefan Golaszewski for Mum (BBC Two)
Writing: DramaLennie James for Save Me (Sky Atlantic)

2018 winners[24][25][26]

In 2018 Netflix's historical drama The Crown was bestowed a special recognition award.

Presented: 20 March 2018 – Host: Vernon Kay
AwardWinnersNominees
Lifetime Achievement AwardJimmy McGovern
Judges' AwardCharlie Brooker and Annabel Jones
Special Recognition AwardThe Crown (Netflix)
Actor: FemaleSinéad Keenan as Melanie Jones in Little Boy Blue (ITV)
Actor: MaleStephen Graham as Detective Superintendent Dave Kelly in Little Boy Blue (ITV)
ArtsPaula Rego, Secrets & Stories (BBC Two)
Breakthrough AwardDaniel Lawrence TaylorTimewasters (ITV2)
Children's ProgrammeNewsround: "Inside My Head" (CBBC)
Comedy PerformanceDaisy May Cooper as Kerry Mucklowe and Charlie Cooper as Lee "Kurtan" Mucklowe in This Country (BBC Three)
Daytime ProgrammeMoving On: "Eighteen" (BBC One)
Documentary SeriesHospital (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesThe End of the F***ing World (Channel 4 / Netflix)
EntertainmentLove Island (ITV2)
Entertainment PerformanceAdam Hills, Alex Brooker and Josh WiddicombeThe Last Leg (Channel 4)
Formatted Popular FactualMuslims Like Us (BBC One)
HistoryElizabeth I's Secret Agents (BBC Two)
Live EventWorld War One Remembered: Passchendaele – For The Fallen (BBC Two)
Mini SeriesThree Girls (BBC One)
PresenterAnita RaniMy Family, Partition and Me: India 1947 (BBC One)
RTS Channel of the YearBBC One
Science & Natural HistoryPlanet Earth II
Scripted ComedyThis Country (BBC Three)
Single DocumentaryRio Ferdinand: Being Mum and Dad (BBC One)
Single DramaMurdered for Being Different (BBC Three)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditMichael JohnsonWorld Athletics Championships (BBC Sport)
Sports ProgrammeAnthony Joshua vs. Wladimir Klitschko (Sky Sports)
Writer: ComedyDaisy May Cooper and Charlie Cooper for This Country (BBC Three)
Writing: DramaNicole Taylor for Three Girls (BBC One)

2017 winners[27][28][29]

This year saw the drama serial award retired to make way for two new awards: the mini-series award and the RTS channel of the year award.

Presented: 21 March 2017 – Host: Sandy Toksvig
AwardWinnersNominees[30][31]
Lifetime Achievement AwardJulie Walters
Judges' AwardSally Wainwright
Actor: FemaleSophie Okonedo as Maya Cobbina in Undercover (BBC One)
Actor: MaleRobbie Coltrane as Paul Finchley in National Treasure (Channel 4)
ArtsGrayson Perry: All Man (Channel 4)
Breakthrough AwardPhoebe Waller-BridgeFleabag (BBC Three)
  • Nadiya HussainThe Chronicles of Nadiya (BBC One)
  • Phillip Wood – Chasing Dad: A Lifelong Addiction (BBC Three)
Children's ProgrammeCBeebies A Midsummer Night's Dream (CBeebies)
Comedy PerformanceAsim Chaudhry as Chabud "Chabuddy G" Gul in People Just Do Nothing (BBC Three)
Daytime ProgrammeFind it, Fix it, Flog it (Channel 4)
Documentary SeriesExodus: Our Journey to Europe (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesHappy Valley (BBC One)
EntertainmentAnt & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway (ITV)
Entertainment PerformanceAdam Hills, Alex Brooker and Josh WiddicombeThe Last Leg (Channel 4)
HistoryThe Aberfan Young Wives' Club (ITV)
  • Secret History: "Saddam Goes to Hollywood" (Channel 4)
  • Challenger Disaster: Lost Tapes (National Geographic)
Live EventStand Up to Cancer (Channel 4)
Mini SeriesNational Treasure (Channel 4)
Popular Factual and FeaturesEmployable Me (BBC Two)
PresenterGrayson PerryGrayson Perry: All Man (Channel 4)
RTS Channel of the YearBBC Three
Science & Natural HistoryFirst Contact: Lost Tribe of the Amazon (Channel 4)
  • The Hunt: "The Hardest Challenge" (BBC One)
  • The Secret Life of 4, 5 & 6 Year Olds (Channel 4)
Scripted ComedyPeople Just Do Nothing (BBC Three)
Single DocumentaryThe Murder of Sadie Hartley (ITV)
Single DramaMurdered by My Father (BBC One)
Soap and Continuing DramaEmmerdale (ITV)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditOsi UmenyioraRace to Super Bowl 50, The NFL Show/NFL This Week (BBC Two)
Sports ProgrammeRio Paralympics (Channel 4)
Writer: ComedyPhoebe Waller-Bridge for Fleabag (BBC Three)
Writing: DramaSally Wainwright for Happy Valley (BBC One)

2016 winners[32][33][34]

In 2016 a single breakthrough award was revived to replace the two awards (behind the scenes and on-screen) that were last bestowed in 2008. The children's fiction award was retired as was the international award.

Presented: 22 March 2016 – Host: Richard Madeley
AwardWinnersNominees[35][4][36]
Lifetime Achievement AwardJoan Bakewell
Judges' AwardLenny Henry
Actor: FemaleSuranne Jones as Dr. Gemma Foster in Doctor Foster (BBC One)
Actor: MaleAnthony Hopkins as "Sir" in The Dresser (BBC Two)
ArtsHandmade (BBC Four)
  • Grayson Perry's Dream House (Channel 4)
  • Hockney (BBC Two)
Breakthrough AwardMichaela CoelChewing Gum (E4)
Children's ProgrammeMy Life: "I Am Leo" (CBBC)
Comedy PerformanceMichaela Coel as Tracey Gordon in Chewing Gum (E4)
Daytime ProgrammeJudge Rinder (ITV)
Documentary SeriesThe Romanians are Coming (Channel 4)
Drama SerialThe Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies (ITV)
Drama SeriesNo Offence (Channel 4)
EntertainmentRelease the Hounds (ITV2)
Entertainment PerformanceAnt & DecI'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! / Britain's Got Talent / Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway (ITV)
HistoryHolocaust: Night Will Fall (Channel 4)
Live EventVE Day 70: The Nation Remembers (BBC One)
Popular, Factual and FeaturesDIY SOS: "Homes For Veterans" (BBC One)
PresenterReggie YatesReggie Yates' Extreme Russia (BBC Three)
Science & Natural HistoryOak Tree: Nature's Greatest Survivor (BBC Four)
Scripted ComedyCatastrophe (Channel 4)
Single DocumentaryStoryville: "India's Daughter" (BBC Four)
Single DramaCoalition (Channel 4)
Soap and Continuing DramaEmmerdale (ITV)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditDavid Coulthard (BBC Sport)
Sports ProgrammeMonday Night Football (Sky Sports)
Writer: ComedyRob Delaney and Sharon Horgan for Catastrophe (Channel 4)
Writing: DramaPeter Morgan for The Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies (ITV)

2015 winners[37][38][39]

Presented: 17 March 2015 – Host: John Sargeant
AwardWinnersNominees
Lifetime Achievement AwardMelvyn Bragg
Judges' AwardBen Stephenson
Actor: FemaleSarah Lancashire as Sgt Catherine Cawood in Happy Valley (BBC One)
Actor: MaleTom Hollander as Dylan Thomas in A Poet in New York (BBC Two)
ArtsGrayson Perry: Who Are You? (Channel 4)
Children's Fiction4 O'Clock Club: "Christmas" (CBBC)
Children's ProgrammeThe Big Performance: "Finale" (CBBC)
  • Marrying Mum and Dad (CBBC)
  • Swashbuckle: "Pirate Pampering" (Cbeebies)
Comedy PerformanceReece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton as various characters in Inside No. 9 (BBC Two)
Daytime ProgrammeCouples Come Dine with Me (Channel 4)
Documentary SeriesLife and Death Row (BBC Three)
  • Bedlam (Channel 4)
  • Protecting Our Parents (BBC Two)
Drama SerialThe Honourable Woman (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesLine of Duty (BBC Two)
EntertainmentThe Graham Norton Show (BBC One)
Entertainment PerformanceClaudia WinklemanStrictly Come Dancing (BBC One)
HistoryOur World War (BBC Three)
InternationalFargo (Channel 4)
Live EventD-Day: The Heroes Return (BBC One)
Popular Factual and FeaturesThe Island with Bear Grylls (Channel 4)
PresenterBilly ConnollyBilly Connolly's Big Send Off (ITV)
  • Lucy WorsleyThe First Georgians: The German Kings Who Made Britain (BBC Four)
  • Grayson PerryGrayson Perry: Who Are You? (Channel 4)
Science & Natural HistoryLive From Space: Lap of the Planet (Channel 4)
  • Life Story (BBC One)
  • The Girl Who Talked to Dolphins (BBC Four)
Scripted ComedyHarry & Paul's Story of the Twos (BBC Two)
Single DocumentaryThe Paedophile Hunter (Channel 4)
Single DramaMurdered by My Boyfriend (BBC Three)
Soap and Continuing DramaCasualty (BBC One)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditGary Neville (Sky Sports)
Sports ProgrammeThe 2014 Ryder Cup (Sky Sports)
Writer: ComedyHarry Enfield, Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson for Harry & Paul's Story of the Twos (BBC Two)
Writing: DramaPeter Bowker for Marvellous (BBC Two)

2014 winners[40][41][42]

In 2014 the nations & regions programme award was dropped to make room for two sports-related awards; sports programme and sports presenter, commentator or pundit.

Presented: 18 March 2014 – Host: Tim Vine
AwardWinnersNominees[43]
Lifetime Achievement AwardDavid Suchet
Judges' AwardJanice Hadlow
Actor: FemaleOlivia Colman as DR Ellie Miller in Broadchurch (ITV) / as Carol in Run (Channel 4)
Actor: MaleIdris Elba as DCI John Luther in Luther (BBC One)
ArtsImagine: "Vivian Maier: Who Took Nanny's Pictures?" (BBC One)
Children's FictionThe Dumping Ground (CBBC)
Children's ProgrammeNewsround: "Hard Times" (CBBC)
Comedy PerformanceBrendan O'Carroll as Agnes Brown in Mrs. Brown's Boys (BBC One)
Daytime ProgrammeFour Rooms (Channel 4 / More4)
Documentary SeriesEducating Yorkshire (Channel 4)
Drama SerialBroadchurch (ITV)
Drama SeriesPeaky Blinders (BBC Two)
EntertainmentThe Last Leg (Channel 4)
Entertainment PerformanceAlan CarrAlan Carr: Chatty Man (Channel 4)
HistoryRichard III: King in the Car Park (Channel 4)
InternationalGame of Thrones (Sky Atlantic)
Live EventThe Ashes – 2013 (Sky Sports)
  • Bollywood Carmen Live (BBC Three)
  • Wimbledon: "Men's Final" (BBC Sport)
Popular Factual and FeaturesGogglebox (Channel 4)
PresenterStephen FryStephen Fry: Out There (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistoryAfrica (BBC One)
  • How To Win The Grand National (Channel 4)
  • Planet Ant: Life Inside the Colony (BBC Four)
Scripted ComedyPlebs (ITV2)
Single DocumentaryThe Murder Trial (Channel 4)
  • Dogging Tales (Channel 4)
  • The Unspeakable Crime: Rape (BBC One)
Single DramaThe Challenger (BBC Two)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
Sports Presenter, Commentator or PunditGary Neville (Sky Sports)
Sports ProgrammeWorld Athletics: "Mo Farah's Double Gold Win (BBC Sport)
Writer: ComedyJames Corden, Mathew Baynton and Tom Basden for The Wrong Mans (BBC Two)
Writing: DramaMarlon Smith and Daniel Fajemisin-Duncan for Run (Channel 4)

2013 winners[44][45][46]

In 2013 the award for live event was revived having been lasted bestowed in 2004. This year was also notable for the RTS television awards in that two judges' awards were bestowed for the very first time.

Presented: 19 March 2013 – Host: Jo Brand
AwardWinnersNominees[47]
Lifetime Achievement AwardDave Gordon (Head of sporting events: BBC)
Judges' AwardDanny Boyle
Judges' AwardLondon Paralympics 2012 (Channel 4)
Actor: FemaleOlivia Colman as Sue in Accused (BBC One)
Actor: MaleSean Bean as Simon / Tracie in Accused (BBC One)
ArtsLucian Freud: Painted Life (BBC Two)
Children's DramaWolfblood (CBBC)
  • Mr Stink (BBC One)
  • Teulu Tŷ Crwn (The 'Tŷ Crwn' Family) (S4C)
Children's ProgrammeRoom on the Broom (BBC One)
Comedy PerformanceJessica Hynes as Siobhan Sharpe in Twenty Twelve (BBC Two)
Daytime ProgrammeRemembrance Week (BBC One)
Documentary SeriesProtecting Our Children (BBC Two)
Drama SerialGood Cop (BBC One)
Drama SeriesSherlock (BBC One)
EntertainmentCelebrity Juice (ITV2)
Entertainment PerformanceAnt & DecI'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! (ITV)
HistoryThe Secret History of Our Streets (BBC Two)
InternationalGirls (Sky Atlantic)
Live EventThe London Olympics 2012 (BBC Sport)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeThe Bank of Dave: "Episode 1" (Channel 4)
Popular Factual and FeaturesLong Lost Family (ITV)
PresenterClare BaldingThe Olympics (BBC)
Science & Natural HistoryOperation Iceberg (BBC Two)
Scripted ComedyAlan Partridge: Welcome to the Places of My Life (Sky Atlantic)
Single Documentary7/7: One Day in London (BBC Two)
  • Fy Chwaer A Fi / My Sister and Me (S4C)
  • Lifers (Channel 4)
Single DramaThe Hollow Crown: "Richard II" (BBC Two)
  • Everyday (Channel 4)
  • My Murder (BBC Three)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
Writer: ComedyWriting Team for The Thick of It (BBC Two)
Writing: DramaSteven Moffat for Sherlock (BBC One)

2012 winners[48][49][50]

Presented: 20 March 2012 – Host: Rob Brydon
AwardWinnersNominees[51][52]
Lifetime Achievement AwardBeryl Vertue
Judges' AwardLaura Mackie (Director of drama: ITV)
Actor: FemaleEmily Watson as Janet Leach in Appropriate Adult (ITV)
Actor: MaleDominic West as Fred West in Appropriate Adult (ITV)
ArtsGraffiti Wars (Channel 4)
Children's DramaThe Story of Tracy Beaker (CBBC)
Children's ProgrammeNewsround: "My Autism & Me" (CBBC)
Comedy PerformanceRussell Tovey as Steve Marshall and Sarah Solemani as Becky Williams in Him & Her (BBC Three)
Daytime ProgrammeDeal or No Deal (Channel 4)
Documentary Series24 Hours in A&E (Channel 4)
Drama SerialTop Boy (Channel 4)
Drama SeriesLuther (BBC One)
EntertainmentDerren Brown: The Experiments (Channel 4)
Entertainment PerformanceAnt & DecI'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! / Red or Black? /
Push the Button / Britain's Got Talent (ITV)
HistoryDambusters: Building The Bouncing Bomb (Channel 4)
InternationalModern Family (Sky1)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeThe Scheme (BBC One Scotland)
Popular Factual and FeaturesHugh's Big Fish Fight (Channel 4)
PresenterGareth MaloneThe Choir: Military Wives (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistoryMummifying Alan: Egypt's Last Secret (Channel 4)
Scripted ComedyFresh Meat (Channel 4)
Single DocumentaryTerry Pratchett: Choosing to Die
Single DramaEric and Ernie (BBC Two)
  • Random (Channel 4)
  • United (BBC Two)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
Writer: ComedySam Bain and Jesse Armstrong for Fresh Meat (Channel 4)
Writing: DramaPeter Bowker for Eric and Ernie (BBC Two)

2011 winners[53][54][55][56][57]

2011 saw a reversal of the 2009 decision with two documentary categories reinstated and the constructed factual series award removed along with the multi-channel programme award.

Presented: 15 March 2011 – Host: Dara Ó Briain
AwardWinnersNominees
Lifetime Achievement AwardPeter Bennett-Jones
Judges' AwardSteven Moffat
Actor: FemaleVicky McClure as Frances Lorraine "Lol" Jenkins in This Is England '86 (Channel 4)
Actor: MaleJim Broadbent as Logan Mountstuart in Any Human Heart (Channel 4)
ArtsAlan Bennett and the Habit of Art (More4)
Children's DramaThe Sarah Jane Adventures (CBBC)
Children's ProgrammeHorrible Histories (CBBC)
  • Something Special (CBeebies)
  • Diwrnod Mawr – Sion Pyrs (My Big Day – Sion Pyrs) (S4C)
Comedy PerformanceMiranda Hart as Miranda in Miranda (BBC One)
Daytime / Early-peak ProgrammeThe Indian Doctor (BBC One)
Documentary SeriesWelcome to Lagos (BBC Two)
Drama SerialFive Daughters (BBC One)
Drama SeriesSherlock (BBC One)
EntertainmentThe X Factor (ITV)
Entertainment PerformanceAnt & DecI'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! / Britain's Got Talent (ITV)
Features and Lifestyle SeriesPineapple Dance Studios (Sky1)
HistoryThe Secret Life of the National Grid (BBC Four)
InternationalTrue Stories: "The Cove" (Channel 4)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeBreaking the Silence (BBC One Northern Ireland)
PresenterBrian CoxWonders of the Solar System (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistoryWonders of the Solar System (BBC Two)
Scripted ComedyMiranda (BBC One)
Single DocumentaryBetween Life and Death (BBC One)
Single DramaThe Road to Coronation Street (BBC Four)
Soap and Continuing DramaEastEnders (BBC One)
Writer: ComedyJo Brand, Vicki Pepperdine and Joanna Scanlan for Getting On (BBC Four)
Writing: DramaJack Thorne and Shane Meadows for This Is England '86 (Channel 4)

2010 winners[58][59][60]

Presented: 16 March 2010 – Host: Rob Brydon
AwardWinnersNominees[61]
Lifetime Achievement AwardTony Warren
Judges' AwardNorma Percy
Actor: FemaleNaomie Harris as Hortense Roberts in Small Island (BBC One)
Actor: MaleDavid Oyelowo as Gilbert Joseph in Small Island (BBC One)
ArtsBaroque! (BBC Four)
Children's DramaRoy (CBBC)
Children's ProgrammeBig & Small: "Blame it on the Drain" (Cbeebies)
Comedy PerformanceMiranda Hart as Miranda in Miranda (BBC Two)
Constructed Factual SeriesFamous, Rich and Homeless (BBC One)
Daytime / Early-peak ProgrammeCome Dine with Me (Channel 4)
DocumentaryWounded (BBC One)
Drama SerialUnforgiven (ITV)
Drama SeriesThe Street (BBC One)
EntertainmentNewswipe with Charlie Brooker (BBC Four)
Entertainment PerformanceHarry HillHarry Hill's TV Burp (ITV)
Features and Lifestyle SeriesHeston's Feasts: "Heston's Victorian Feast" (Channel 4)
HistoryGarrow's Law (BBC One)
InternationalMad Men (BBC Four)
Multi-Channel Programme AwardDating in the Dark (Living)
  • True Stories: "Here's Johnny" (More 4)
  • Micro Men (BBC Four)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeA History of Scotland (BBC One Scotland)
  • Deep Wreck Mysteries: Death of a Battleship (UTV)
  • Shameless (Channel 4)
PresenterLouis TherouxA Place for Paedophiles (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistoryInside Nature's Giants (Channel 4)
  • The Great Sperm Race (Channel 4)
  • Yellowstone: "Winter" (BBC Two)
Scripted ComedyThe Thick of It (BBC Two)
Single DramaFive Minutes of Heaven (BBC Two)
  • A Short Stay in Switzerland (BBC One)
  • Endgame (Channel 4)
Soap and Continuing DramaEastEnders (BBC One)
Writer: ComedyIain Morris and Damon Beesley for The Inbetweeners (E4)
Writing: DramaPeter Bowker for Occupation (BBC One)

2009 winners[62][63][64]

In 2009 the two separate awards for documentaries were merged to make room for an award for constructed factual series, created to recognise the growth and popularity of the reality TV series genre.

Presented: 17 March 2009 – Host: Rory Bremner
AwardWinnersNominees
Lifetime Achievement AwardBruce Forsyth
Judges' AwardRichard Holloway
Actor: FemaleAndrea Riseborough as Angelica Fanshawe in The Devil's Whore (Channel 4)
Actor: MaleBen Whishaw as Ben Coulter in Criminal Justice (BBC One)
ArtsArena: "The Agony and The Ecstasy of Phil Spector" (BBC Two)
Children's DramaM.I. High (CBBC)
Children's ProgrammeABC (S4C)
Comedy PerformancePeter Kay as Geraldine McQueen in Britain's Got the Pop Factor... (Channel 4)
Constructed Factual SeriesThe Choir: Boys Don't Sing (BBC Two)
Daytime / Early-peak ProgrammeThe Estate We're In (BBC One)
Digital Channel ProgrammeCharlie Brooker's Screenwipe (BBC Four)
DocumentaryThe Fallen (BBC Two)
Drama SerialThe Devil's Whore (Channel 4)
Drama SeriesThe Fixer (ITV)
EntertainmentHarry Hill's TV Burp (ITV)
Entertainment PerformanceAlan Carr and Justin Lee CollinsThe Sunday Night Project (Channel 4)
Features and Lifestyle SeriesHow to Look Good Naked (Channel 4)
HistoryVictorian Sex Explorer (Channel 4)
InternationalMad Men (BBC Four)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeA Poem for Harry (BBC West)
PresenterBruce ParryAmazon with Bruce Parry (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistoryLost Land of the Jaguar (BBC One)
Scripted ComedyOutnumbered (BBC One)
Single DramaThe Curse of Steptoe (BBC Four)
Soap and Continuing DramaEastEnders (BBC One)
Writer: ComedySam Bain and Jesse Armstrong for Peep Show (Channel 4)
Writing: DramaPeter Flannery for The Devil's Whore (Channel 4)

2008 winners[65][66][67]

In 2008 the RTS Gold Medal was superseded by the lifetime achievement award. The two breakthrough awards (behind the scenes and on-screen) were retired in this year as was the award for nations & regions presenter.

Presented: 19 March 2008 – Host: Eamonn Holmes
AwardWinnersNominees[68]
Lifetime Achievement AwardSir David Attenborough
Judges' AwardGlenwyn Benson
Actor: FemaleSally Hawkins as Anne Elliot in Persuasion (ITV)
Actor: MaleMatthew Macfadyen as Charlie in Secret Life (Channel 4)
ArtsGenius of Photography (BBC Four)
Children's DramaMy Life as a Popat (CITV)
Children's ProgrammeSerious Andes (CBBC)
Comedy PerformanceDavid Mitchell as Mark Corrigan / Robert Webb as Jeremy "Jez" Usborne in Peep Show (Channel 4)
Daytime ProgrammeCome Dine with Me (Channel 4)
Digital Channel ProgrammeFonejacker (E4)
Drama SerialBritz (Channel 4)
Drama SeriesThe Street (BBC One)
EntertainmentQI (BBC Two)
Entertainment PerformanceHarry HillHarry Hill's TV Burp (ITV)
Features and Lifestyle SeriesTop Gear (BBC Two)
Formatted DocumentaryMeet the Natives (Channel 4)
HistoryAndrew Marr's History of Modern Britain (BBC Two)
InternationalFlight of the Conchords (BBC Four)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeBoys Behind Bars (BBC Scotland)
Observational DocumentaryYou're Not Splitting Up My Family (Channel 4)
PresenterAndrew MarrAndrew Marr's History of Modern Britain (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistoryParallel Worlds, Parallel Lives (BBC Four)
  • Horizon: "Everest – Doctors in the Death Zone" (BBC Two)
  • The Human Footprint (Channel 4)
Single DramaStuart: A Life Backwards (BBC Two)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaThe Mighty Boosh (BBC Three)
Soap and Continuing DramaThe Bill (ITV)
Writer: ComedyGraham Linehan for The IT Crowd (Channel 4)
Writing: DramaHeidi Thomas for Cranford (BBC One)

2007 winners

Presented: 14 March 2007 – Host: Mark Austin
AwardWinners[69]Nominees[70]
RTS Gold MedalClive Jones (MD: ITV network)
Judges' AwardRichard Curtis
Actor: FemaleHelen Mirren as DCI Jane Tennison in Prime Suspect (ITV)
Actor: MaleMichael Sheen as Kenneth Williams in Kenneth Williams: Fantabulosa! (BBC Four)
Arts9/11: Out of the Blue (Channel 5)
Breakthrough Award – Behind the ScenesLee Mack and Andrew CollinsNot Going Out (BBC One)
Breakthrough Award – On ScreenSacha Dhawan as Karim in Bradford Riots (Channel 4)
Children's DramaYoung Dracula (CBBC)
Children's ProgrammeNewsround: "The Wrong Trainers" (CBBC)
Comedy PerformanceStephen Merchant as Darren Lamb in Extras (BBC Two)
Daytime ProgrammeThrough Hell and High Water (BBC One)
Documentary SeriesAnatomy of a Crime (BBC Two)
Digital Channel ProgrammeDeath of a President (More4)
Drama SerialLow Winter Sun (Channel 4)
Drama SeriesThe Street (BBC One)
EntertainmentHow Do You Solve a Problem like Maria? (BBC One)
Entertainment PerformanceSimon AmstellNever Mind the Buzzcocks (BBC Two)
Features and Factual EntertainmentThe Apprentice (BBC Two)
HistoryWho Do You Think You Are? (BBC One)
InternationalEntourage (ITV2)
Nations and Regions PresenterJim McColl – The Beechgrove Garden (BBC One)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeInside Out: "Iceman" (BBC Yorkshire)
PresenterBruce ParryTribe (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistoryPlanet Earth: "From Pole to Pole" (BBC One)
Single DocumentaryTrue Stories: "Sisters in Law" (More4)
Single DramaHousewife, 49 (ITV)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaThe Royle Family: "The Queen of Sheba" (BBC Two)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
Writer: ComedyCaroline Aherne, Craig Cash and Phil Mealey for The Royle Family (BBC Two)
Writing: DramaPeter Morgan for Longford (Channel 4)

2006 winners (Programme Awards 2005)[71][72][73]

In 2006 the two newcomer awards (behind the scenes and on-screen) were each renamed as the breakthrough awards. No RTS Gold Medal recipient is recorded for this year.

Presented: 14 March 2006 – Host: Phillip Schofield
AwardWinnersNominees[74]
Judges' AwardJon Plowman
Actor: FemaleLesley Sharp as Alison Mundy in Afterlife (ITV)
Actor: MaleDavid Threlfall as Frank Gallagher in Shameless (Channel 4) / & The Queen's Sister)
ArtsHolocaust: A Music Memorial Film from Auschwitz (BBC Two)
Breakthrough Award – Behind the ScenesJonathan Smith – Only Human: "Make Me Normal" (Channel 4)
Breakthrough Award – On ScreenPhil Beadle – The Unteachables (Channel 4)
Children's DramaMy Parents Are Aliens (CITV)
Children's ProgrammeSerious Arctic (CBBC)
  • Charlie and Lola: "I Am Not Sleepy and I Will Not Go to Bed" (Cbeebies)
  • Sticks and Stones (Channel 4)
Comedy PerformanceCatherine Tate as various characters in The Catherine Tate Show (BBC Two)
Daytime ProgrammeDeal or No Deal (Channel 4)
Documentary SeriesJamie's School Dinners (Channel 4)
  • Cocaine (Channel 4)
  • Tribe (BBC Two)
Digital Channel ProgrammeBrainiac (Sky One)
Drama SerialBleak House (BBC One)
Drama SeriesBodies (BBC Three)
EntertainmentThe Catherine Tate Show (BBC Two)
Entertainment PerformancePaul O'GradyThe Paul O'Grady Show (ITV)
Features and Factual EntertainmentSpringwatch with Bill Oddie (BBC Two)
HistoryTrafalgar Battle Surgeon (Channel 4)
InternationalWeeds (Sky One)
Nations and Regions PresenterStephen NolanNolan Live (BBC Northern Ireland)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeFrom Belfast to Dachau (BBC Northern Ireland)
  • New Found Land: "Elephant Boy" (STV and Grampian)
  • New Found Land: "IM" (STV and Grampian)
PresenterLorraine KellyLK Today, GMTV (GMTV)
Science & Natural HistoryAnatomy for Beginners (Channel 4)
Single DocumentaryChildren of Beslan (BBC Two)
  • Make Me Normal (Channel 4)
  • Taxidermy: Stuff the World (BBC Two)
Single DramaThe Government Inspector (Channel 4)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaThe Thick of It (BBC Four)
Soap and Continuing DramaEmmerdale (ITV)
Writer: ComedySam Bain and Jesse Armstrong for Peep Show (Channel 4)
Writing: DramaAndrew Davies for Bleak House (BBC One)

2005 winners (Programme Awards 2004)[75][76][77][78]

In 2005 the event award was once again dropped to make way for a new digital channel programme award and the writing award was split into two awards; writer: comedy, and writer: drama. No RTS Gold Medal recipient is recorded for this year.

Presented: 15 March 2005 – Host: Kate Thornton
AwardWinnersNominees[79]
Judges' AwardPaul Abbott
Actor: FemaleAnamaria Marinca as Elena Visinescu in Sex Traffic (Channel 4)
Actor: MaleGerard McSorley as Michael Gallagher in Omagh (Channel 4)
ArtsThe South Bank Show: "Robert Frank" (ITV)
Children's DramaTracy Beaker: The Movie of Me (Channel 4)
Children's ProgrammeNo Girls Allowed (Shake!)
Comedy PerformanceTamsin Greig as Dr. Caroline Todd in Green Wing (Channel 4)
Daytime ProgrammeThe Paul O'Grady Show (ITV)
Documentary SeriesThe Power of Nightmares (BBC Two)
  • My Crazy Parents (Channel 4)
  • The Trouble with Black Men (BBC Three)
Digital Channel ProgrammeVirtual History: Secret Plot to Kill Hitler (Discovery Channel)
  • Flashmob The Opera (BBC Three)
  • The Heart of a Lioness (Animal Planet)
Drama SerialSex Traffic (Channel 4)
Drama SeriesShameless (Channel 4)
EntertainmentStrictly Come Dancing (BBC One)
Entertainment PerformanceAnt & DecAnt & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway (ITV)
Features and Factual EntertainmentSupernanny (Channel 4)
HistoryThe Guinea Pig Club (BBC Four)
  • D-Day: The Ultimate Conflict (Channel 5)
  • Virtual History: Secret Plot to Kill Hitler (Discovery Channel)
InternationalThe Sopranos (Channel 4)
Nations and Regions PresenterStephen NolanNolan Live / Fair Play / The Right Move (BBC Northern Ireland)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeMy Name is Paul (BBC Northern Ireland)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesPatrick Collerton – The Boy Whose Skin Fell Off (Channel 4)
Newcomer – On ScreenCatherine Tate as various characters in The Catherine Tate Show (BBC Two)
PresenterMichael PalinHimalaya with Michael Palin (BBC One)
Science & Natural HistoryYour Life in Their Hands (BBC One)
  • Horizon: "Atkins Diet" (BBC Two)
  • Secret Intersex (Channel 4)
Single DocumentaryStealing a Nation: A Special Report by John Pilger (ITV)
Single DramaDirty Filthy Love (ITV)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaNighty Night (BBC Three)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
Writer: ComedyJulia Davis for Nighty Night (BBC Three)
Writing: DramaPaul Abbott for Shameless (Channel 4)

2004 winners (Programme Awards 2003)[80][81][82]

In 2004 the acquired award introduced the previous year was redesignated as the international award and the serials & single drama award was once again split back into two separate awards, namely the drama serial award and the single drama award. No RTS Gold Medal recipient is recorded for this year.

Presented: 16 March 2004 – Host: Jimmy Carr
AwardWinnersNominees[83]
Judges' AwardGreg Dyke
Actor: FemaleKate Ashfield as Sadie MacGregor in This Little Life (BBC Two)
Actor: MaleDavid Morrissey as Gordon Brown in The Deal (Channel 4)
ArtsOperatunity (Channel 4)
Children's DramaGirls in Love (CITV)
Children's ProgrammeUP2U (BBC)
Comedy PerformanceDavid Walliams and Matt LucasLittle Britain (BBC Three)
Daytime ProgrammeBritain's Secret Shame (BBC One)
Documentary SeriesThe Last Peasants (Channel 4)
Drama SerialState of Play (BBC One)
Drama SeriesSpooks (BBC One)
EntertainmentLittle Britain (BBC Three)
Entertainment PerformanceJonathan RossFriday Night with Jonathan Ross (BBC One)
EventComic Relief: "The Big Hair Do" (BBC Two)-
Features and Factual EntertainmentHoliday Showdown (ITV)
HistoryGeorgian Underworld: "Invitation to a Hanging" (Channel 4)
International Award24 (BBC Two / BBC Three)
Nations and Regions PresenterGerry AndersonAnderson in... (BBC Northern Ireland)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeChristine's Children (BBC Northern Ireland)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesSarah GavronThis Little Life (BBC Two)
Newcomer – On ScreenKatie Lyon as Joanna Mosscroft in Pleasureland (Channel 4)
Presenter - FactualMelvyn BraggThe Adventure of English (ITV) / The South Bank Show (ITV)
Science & Natural HistoryMotherland (BBC Two)
Single DocumentaryThe Secret Policeman (BBC One)
Single DramaThis Little Life (BBC Two)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaThe Office: "Christmas Specials" (BBC Two)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
WritingPaul Abbott for State of Play (BBC One)

2003 winners (Programme Awards 2002)[84][85][86]

2003 saw two completely new categories introduced in the shape of the acquired programme award and the comedy performance award. An event award was also reintroduced, similar to the live event award that had been last bestowed in 1998. The team award was retired in this year.

Presented: 18 March 2003 – Host: Kirsty Young
AwardWinnersNominees[87]
RTS Gold MedalDavid Liddiment
Judges' AwardPeter Bazalgette
Acquired ProgrammeSix Feet Under (HBO / Channel 4)
  • In Memoriam (HBO)
  • My Sperm Donor Dad (BBC Four)
Actor: FemaleJulie Walters as Angela Maurer in Murder (BBC Two)
Actor: MaleChristopher Eccleston as Joe Broughton in Flesh and Blood (BBC Two)
ArtsThe Strange World of Barry Who? (BBC Four)
Children's FactualSerious Jungle (CBBC)
  • RAD: The Grommets Tour (Channel 5)
  • Stuff: "Episode 2" (CITV)
Children's FictionalDouble Act (4Learning)
Comedy PerformanceRicky Gervais as David Brent in The Office (BBC Two)
Daytime ProgrammeToday with Des and Mel (ITV)
Documentary SeriesThe Hunt for Britain's Paedophiles (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesClocking Off (BBC One)
EntertainmentPop Idol: "The Final" & "Results Show" (ITV)
Entertainment PerformanceJonathan RossFriday Night with Jonathan Ross (BBC One) / They Think It's All Over (BBC One)
EventThe Jubilee Weekend (BBC One)
Features PrimetimeLads' Army (ITV)
HistoryDambusters: Revealed (Channel 5)
Nations and Regions PresenterDewi Pws – Byd Pws (S4C)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeAr Y Stryd (S4C)
  • Do Armed Robbers Have Love Affairs? (BBC Northern Ireland)
  • Silence of the Lambs (Yorkshire Television)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesDavid ModellYoung, Nazi and Proud (Channel 4)
Newcomer – On ScreenJimmy CarrYour Face or Mine? (E4)
PresenterSusannah Constantine and Trinny WoodallWhat Not to Wear (BBC Two)
Science & Natural HistorySuperfly (BBC Four)
  • Death (Channel 4)
  • Weird Nature: "Marvellous Motion" (BBC One)
Serials and Single DramaOut of Control (BBC One)
Single DocumentaryHouse of War (Channel 4)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaPhoenix Nights (Channel 4)
Soap and Continuing DramaCoronation Street (ITV)
WritingPeter Bowker for Flesh and Blood (BBC Two)

2002 winners (Programme Awards 2001)[88][89]

In 2002 three new awards were introduced; the soap and continuing drama award; the science & natural history award; and the history award. Other changes saw the children's drama and the children's entertainment categories merged to become the children's fictional award; and the drama serial award merged with the single drama award. Awards for documentary strand and regional documentary were retired.

Presented: 19 March 2002 – Host: Graham Norton
AwardWinnersNominees[90]
RTS Gold MedalBBC Natural History Unit
Judges' AwardNick Elliott (ITV network head of drama)
Actor: FemaleDiane Parish as Lesley Bailey in Babyfather (BBC Two)
Actor: MaleDavid Suchet as Augustus Melmotte in The Way We Live Now (BBC One)
ArtsArena: "James Ellory's Feast of Death" (BBC Two)
Children's FactualNick News: "WisedUp" (Nickelodeon)
Children's FictionalMy Parents Are Aliens (CITV)
Daytime ProgrammeThe Weakest Link (BBC Two)
Documentary SeriesLiving with Cancer (BBC One)
Drama SeriesClocking Off (BBC One)
EntertainmentBanzai (E4)
Entertainment PerformanceAlistair McGowanAlistair McGowan's Big Impression (BBC One)
Features PrimetimeFaking It (Channel 4)
HistoryFire, Plague, War and Treason (Channel 4)
  • Endgame in Ireland (BBC Two)
  • Time of Our Lives (ITV)
Nations and Regions PresenterTam CowanTaxi for Cowan / Offside (BBC Scotland)
Nations and Regions ProgrammeTartan Shorts: "Cry for Bobo" (BBC Scotland)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesMarc IsaacsThe Lift (Channel 4)
Newcomer – On ScreenJohnny Vegas as Charlie Doyle in Happiness (BBC Two)
  • Holly Scourfield as Chloe in When I Was 12 (BBC Two)
  • Omid Djalili in Bloody Foreigners (Channel 4)
PresenterAnt & DecSMTV Live (ITV)
Science & Natural HistoryCongo (BBC Two)
Serials and Single DramaPerfect Strangers (BBC Two)
Single DocumentaryKelly and Her Sisters (ITV)
  • Cutting Edge: "Brian's Story" (Channel 4)
  • One Day of Terror: New York Witnesses (BBC Two)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaThe Office (BBC Two)
Soap and Continuing DramaEastEnders (BBC One)
TeamKumbh Mela: The Greatest Show on Earth (Channel 4)
WritingStephen Poliakoff for Perfect Strangers (BBC Two)

2001 winners (Programme Awards 2000)[91][92]

No RTS Gold Medal recipient is recorded for this year.

Presented: 20 March 2001
AwardWinnersNominees
Judges' AwardJohn Willis (MD: LWT & United Productions)
Actor: FemaleKaty Murphy as Lucy Pannick in Donovan Quick (BBC Scotland)
Actor: MaleSteven Mackintosh as Davey Younger in Care (BBC One)
ArtsArena: "Wisconsin Death Trip" (BBC Two)
Children's DramaMy Parents Are Aliens (CITV)
Children's EntertainmentSMTV Live (ITV)
Children's FactualBlue Peter (BBC One)
Documentary Series15 (Channel 4)
Documentary StrandCorrespondent (BBC Two)
Drama SerialNature Boy (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesClocking Off (BBC One)
EntertainmentDa Ali G Show (Channel 4)
Features DaytimeWatercolour Challenge (Channel 4)
Features PrimetimeBig Brother (Channel 4)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesLiza Marshall – The Sins (BBC One)
Newcomer – On ScreenRob Brydon in Marion and Geoff (BBC Two)
PresenterGraham NortonSo Graham Norton (Channel 4)
Regional DocumentarySpotlight: "Capitol Hill" (BBC Northern Ireland)
Regional PresenterStephen Jardine (STV)
Regional Programme'New Found Land: "I Saw You" (STV / Grampian)
Single DocumentaryTrue Stories: "100% White" (Channel 4)
  • News from Number 10 (BBC Two)
  • The Man Who Bought Mustique (Channel 4)
Single DramaStorm Damage (BBC Two)
  • Care (BBC One)
  • Donovan Quick (BBC Scotland)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaThe Royle Family (BBC Two)
TeamBig Brother (Channel 4)
Television PerformanceJulia DavisHuman Remains (BBC Two)
WritingPaul Abbott for Clocking Off (BBC One)

2000 winners (Programme Awards 1999)[93][94]

Presented: 21 March 2000
AwardWinnersNominees[95]
RTS Gold MedalBSkyB
Judges' AwardPeter Symes (BBC director)
Actor: FemaleThora Hird as Annie in Lost for Words (ITV)
Actor: MaleMichael Gambon as Squire Hamley in Wives and Daughters (BBC One)
ArtsThis is Modern Art (Channel 4)
Children's DramaSee How They Run (BBC)
Children's EntertainmentSMTV Live (ITV)
Children's FactualNick News: "WisedUp" (Nickelodeon)
  • North Hollywood High (Channel 4)
  • Wise Up (Channel 4)
Documentary SeriesThe Decision (Channel 4)
Documentary StrandHorizon (BBC Two)
Drama SerialShooting the Past (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesThe Cops (BBC Two)
EntertainmentThe League of Gentlemen (BBC Two)
Features DaytimeShow Me the Money (Channel 4)
Features PrimetimeThe 1900 House (Channel 4)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesDavid WolstencroftPsychos (Channel 4)
Newcomer – On ScreenJamie Oliver presenting The Naked Chef (BBC Two)
  • Eric Byrne as Daniel Letts in Kid in the Corner (Channel 4)
  • Nigel Marven presenting Giants (ITV)
PresenterJohnny VaughanThe Big Breakfast (Channel 4)
Regional DocumentarySpinners and Losers (STV)
Regional PresenterRoy NobleCommon Ground / The Shed (BBC Wales)
Regional ProgrammeNuts and Bolts (HTV)
  • Soul Music (Carlton Central)
  • Voices of a Nation (BBC Wales)
Single DocumentaryMalcolm and Barbara: A Love Story (ITV)
Single DramaWarriors (BBC One)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaPeople Like Us (BBC Two)
TeamWalking with Dinosaurs (BBC One)
Television PerformanceRory BremnerBremner, Bird and Fortune (Channel 4)
WritingCaroline Aherne & Craig Cash for The Royle Family (BBC Two)

1999 winners (Programme Awards 1998)[96]

This year saw a special recognition award for the Channel 4 comedy series Father Ted to mark Dermot Morgan's passing in February 1998. The features award was split into two categories: Daytime and Primetime, and the live event award was discontinued.

Presented: 29 March 1999 – Host: Trisha Goddard
AwardWinnersNominees
RTS Gold MedalRoger Laughton
Judges' AwardAndrea Wonfor
Special Recognition AwardFather Ted
Actor: FemaleThora Hird as Violet in Talking Heads: "Waiting for the Telegram" (BBC Two)
Actor: MaleRay Winstone as Woody Williamson in Our Boy (BBC One)
ArtsClose Up: "This England" (BBC Two)
Children's DramaMicrosoap (CBBC)
Children's EntertainmentThe First Snow of Winter (BBC)
Children's FactualThe Fame Game (BBC One)
Documentary SeriesWindrush (BBC Two)
  • The Clintons: A Marriage of Power (Channel 4)
  • The 50 Years War: Israel and the Arabs (BBC Two)
Documentary StrandNatural World (BBC Two)
  • Inside Story (BBC One)
  • Return of the Ba Ba Zee (Channel 4)
Drama SerialThe Young Person's Guide to Becoming a Rock Star (Channel 4)
Drama SeriesJonathan Creek (BBC One)
EntertainmentWho Wants to Be a Millionaire? (ITV)
Features DaytimeCity Hospital (BBC One)
  • Lowri (BBC Two)
Features PrimetimeTime Team (Channel 4)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesDamien O'DonnellThirty Five Aside (BBC Two)
Newcomer – On ScreenTony Maudsley as Stefan Kiszko in A Life for A Life (ITV)
PresenterDavid AttenboroughThe Life of Birds (BBC One)
Regional DocumentaryPut to the Test (BBC Northern Ireland)
Regional PresenterNoel Thompson (BBC Northern Ireland)
  • Marsali Stewart – Up For It! (BBC Scotland)
  • Vincent KaneKane / Week In Week Out Special (BBC Wales)
Regional ProgrammeA Light in the Valley (BBC Wales)
  • Making a Difference (BBC Northern Ireland)
  • Scotland's Larder: "From Angus to Andalucia" (STV)
Single DocumentaryModern Times: "Drinking for England" (BBC Two)
Single DramaA Rather English Marriage (BBC Two)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaCold Feet (ITV)
TeamGoodness Gracious Me (BBC Two)
Television PerformanceRory BremnerRory Bremner, Who Else? (Chanel 4)
WritingPeter Berry for A Life for A Life (ITV)

1998 winners (Programme Awards 1997)[97]

In 1998 the following new awards were instituted: Documentary strand; Features; Newcomer – behind the scenes; and Newcomer – on screen.

Presented: March 1998
AwardWinnersNominees
RTS Gold MedalTrevor McDonald-
Judges' AwardMichael Wearing-
Actor: FemaleSinéad Cusack as Charlotte Dawson in Have Your Cake and Eat It (BBC One)
Actor: MaleSimon Russell Beale as Widmerpool in A Dance to the Music of Time (Channel 4)
ArtsThe South Bank Show: "Gilbert & George" (LWT)
Children's DramaSunny's Ears (Carlton)
Children's EntertainmentTeletubbies (BBC Two)
Children's FactualNewsround: "Bullying" (BBC One)
  • As Seen On TV: "Reading" (BBC Two)
  • The Lowdown: "Strictly Wimbledon" (BBC One)
Documentary SeriesBreaking Point (BBC Two)
Documentary StrandWitness (Channel 4)
  • Equinox (Channel 4)
  • Picture This (BBC Two)
Drama SerialHolding On (BBC Two)
Drama SeriesThis Life (BBC Two)
EntertainmentHarry Enfield & Chums (BBC One)
FeaturesBack to the Floor (BBC Two)
Live EventFuneral of Diana, Princess of Wales (BBC One)
Newcomer – Behind the ScenesPaul McGuiganThe Granton Star Cause (Channel 4)
Newcomer – On ScreenAdam Buxton & Joe CornishThe Adam and Joe Show (Channel 4)
PresenterJeremy ClarksonTop Gear (BBC Two)
Regional DocumentaryTales from the Health Service: A Doctor's Tale (BBC Wales)
Regional PresenterNoel ThompsonHearts and Minds (BBC Northern Ireland)
Regional ProgrammeFood For Ravens (BBC Wales)
  • Northern Lights: "The Freesia of Eden" (BBC Northern Ireland)
  • Tartan Shorts: "Gasman" (BBC Scotland)
Single DocumentaryTrue Stories: "The Grave" (Channel 4)
  • Dunblane: Remembering our Children (Meridian)
Single DramaThe Granton Star Cause (Channel 4)
Situation Comedy and Comedy DramaThe Vicar of Dibley (BBC One)
TeamTime Team Live (Channel 4)
Television PerformanceChris MorrisBrass Eye (Channel 4)
WritingTony Marchant for Holding On (BBC Two)

Winners: 1989–1997

In 1989 the awards categories underwent a major revision and several new categories were created. These new awards were retrospectively conferred for the award year of 1988. It was also in 1989 that nominations were introduced in certain categories for the very first time.[98]

Winners: 1975–1988

These are the list of winners since the establishment of the RTSP.[98]

References