Viewers tuning into this year’s National Television Awards voiced their discontent over a perceived snub of a popular TV personality. Public outcry erupted as a veteran television presenter once again missed out on an awards win, leaving many questioning what more it would take for them to clinch the coveted prize. The streak of wins by Ant and Dec, which spanned 24 years, was broken by former Match of the Day host Gary Lineker securing the accolade.
However, several contenders in the same category were seen as frontrunners for the award, overshadowing the former Leicester footballer in the eyes of some NTA viewers. Fans took to social media platforms to express their disappointment at the defeat of the host of “The Traitors.”
Advocates for Claudia Winkleman argued that she was more deserving of the Best TV Presenter award. Ant and Dec had enjoyed a remarkable run, winning the accolade consecutively from 2000 to 2024.
Ex-footballer Lineker claimed the award this year, ending the Geordie duo’s dominance in the category. Yet, some viewers remained disheartened by Winkleman being overlooked once again.
One fan expressed their surprise, saying, “I honestly don’t know what I’m more surprised about – that it’s finally been won by someone else or the fact that person wasn’t Claudia Winkleman. What more does she have to do?!” Another fan lamented, “I thought the only presenter to knock Ant and Dec off their run would have been Claudia Winkleman – slightly disappointed it wasn’t Claudia! Love her!”
While some felt Winkleman was snubbed, others welcomed the change in winner after Ant and Dec’s long reign. One supporter stated, “Finally someone other than Ant & Dec won for best presenter. I was hoping for Claudia Winkleman. However, I’m happy for Gary Lineker winning it after all the years of commitment he has given to Match Of The Day.” Another concurred, commenting, “Snap! Not unhappy that Gary won after 25 years of service…”
Lineker announced that the 2024/25 football season would mark his final stint hosting Match of the Day. Subsequently, he departed from the program, which is now covering the 2025/26 season.
Some viewers found it hard to believe that Lineker triumphed over Winkleman and demanded a recount to potentially sway the awards in her favor. One individual wrote, “Also are these votes ALL public votes? Absolutely not a chance in HELL that Gary Lineker has won this over Claudia Winkleman. We need a recount.” Echoing the sentiment, another said, “It’s time to give Claudia Winkleman her flowers.”
Winkleman has received three nominations for Best TV Presenter, with nods in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Additionally, she was nominated for a BAFTA TV Award and a Royal Television Award for her role as The Traitors presenter this year.
