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We Have a Winner!

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Issue 22 Answers and Winners

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Issue 21 Answers & Winners

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Issue 20 Answers and Winners

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Issue 18 Answers & Winners

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Issue 17 Answers & Winners

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Winners Revealed – The TV Choice Awards 2025

## We found out how Coronation Street star Vicky Myers pulled together her stunning look for the 2025 TV Choice Awards

All the stars looked fabulous at the TV Choice Awards last week, but when we asked you over on our :a[Instagram]{href='https://www.instagram.com/tvchoicemagazine' } for your best-dressed, there was one clear winner: Coronation Street star Vicky Myers, who looked gorgeous in a floor-length cornflower blue gown. We caught up with Vicky to get some details on how this stunning look came together — including where you can buy the dress yourself!

We told Vicky how much our readers loved her look: 'Oh, how lovely,' she said. 'I don’t have a stylist, it’s all high street (last minute), but I’d love to mention my hairdresser Leah and obviously thank the readers very much, and everyone at TV Choice for inviting us. Everyone looked incredible and we had a fantastic night.'

She continued, 'I’m not a great shopper, if truth be told. I get quite bored trying on clothes and would much rather be doing something else — maybe that’ll change in time. I love having my hair and makeup done though — that’s a real treat.'

On her philosophy for getting dressed, Vicky shared 'I like wearing colour and I don’t try too hard — if I like it and if it fits, I’ll wear it. My aim isn’t what other people would think — they’re not wearing it. You have to be comfortable and feel great.'

Her hair was cut by :a[Leah Riley]{href='https://www.instagram.com/leahrileyhair/' } and styled by :a[Kirby Blythe]{href='https://www.instagram.com/hairbykirbyblythe' }, while :a[Sally Rowe]{href='https://www.instagram.com/sallyrowemua/' } did her makeup. Nothing she wore was gifted, and you can even pick up the dress yourself from :a[Phase Eight]{href='https://www.phase-eight.com/product/marren-blue-chiffon-pleated-maxi-dress-222360408.html#q=pleat%20dress&amp;is=true&amp;sz=60&amp;start=0&amp;isSecondPage=false&amp;pid=222360408&amp;pos=11' }! Her shoes and necklace are from John Lewis, the bag is from Mango, the rings are from Paul David Jewellery and the earrings are from Coach.

Vicky Myers shares the details of her best-dressed TV Choice Awards look

## It’s run for close to three decades – but who are all of the show’s main characters, both past and present? {#h-it-s-run-for-more-than-a-quarter-of-a-century-but-who-are-all-of-the-show-s-main-characters-both-past-and-present}

Midsomer Murders has been one of television’s best-loved police dramas for almost 30 years. Having begun in 1997, it’s become one of ITV’s most successful shows, having produced almost 150 episodes. That amounts to an awful lot of murders being committed in one English county! Over the years, there have been two detectives who have led the series – Tom Barnaby, followed by his cousin John Barnaby – who have been ably supported by a host of supporting cast members.

We’ve put together a guide to all of Midsomer Murders’ main characters, including those who have since left the show, complete with information about where else you might have seen the actors…

### Neil Dudgeon plays Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby {#h-neil-dudgeon-plays-detective-chief-inspector-john-barnaby}

**Duration**: Series 13 (guest role), 14 to present

John Barnaby transferred to Midsomer’s Causton CID to replace his cousin, Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby (John Nettles) who was retiring. John didn’t get on particularly well with DS Ben Jones (Jason Hughes) when he first arrived, but the pair later formed a great partnership. John lives locally with his wife Sarah (Fiona Dolman) and daughter Betty.

Long-time Midsomer Murders viewers may remember that Neil first appeared in the show as an entirely different character. Back in the fourth series’ opening episode Garden Of Death, he played the gardener Daniel Bolt. Neil is also known for playing the lead role of Jim Riley opposite Caroline Quentin in the BBC comedy Life Of Riley between 2009 and 2011. During an acting career which has spanned 40 years, Neil has made appearances in some of the UK’s best known TV shows, including Lovejoy (1991), Casualty (1991), The Bill (1991), A Touch Of Frost (1994), Inspector Morse (1995) and Silent Witness (2008).

### Fiona Dolman plays Sarah Barnaby {#h-fiona-dolman-plays-sarah-barnaby}

Sarah is the wife of John Barnaby (Neil Dudgeon), and is the headmistress of a local secondary school, and the couple live together in a country cottage – with their dog Sykes, before the beloved pet sadly died. The couple later adopted a terrier pup named Paddy, after his previous owner was murdered. Sarah fell pregnant during the course of the 16th series, and gave birth to their first child, Betty.

In 2008, Fiona played Miss Pamela Andrews in 48 episodes of The Royal Today – the daytime spin-off series to The Royal. She was also well known for playing Jackie Bradley, the wife of PC Mike Bradley, in the long-running ITV series Heartbeat between 1998 and 2001. She has also appeared in Ultraviolet (1998), The Bill (1997, 2001, 2003 and 2009), Holby City (2003, 2007 and 2009), Coronation Street (2009), Waterloo Road (2010), The Syndicate (2013), Casualty (2016) and Unforgotten (2025).

### Nick Hendrix plays Detective Sergeant Jamie Winter {#h-nick-hendrix-plays-detective-sergeant-jamie-winter}

Jamie is the latest sergeant to be paired with DCI John Barnaby (Neil Dudgeon), replacing DS Charlie Nelson (Gwilym Lee). Before moving to Midsomer, Jamie had worked in London, and had gone on a crime management course with Dr Kam Marimore (Manjinder Virk).

Before joining the cast of Midsomer Murders in 2016, Nick had made guest appearances in quite a few British dramas, including Inspector George Gently (2012), Call The Midwife (2013), Lightfields (2013), The White Queen (2013), Foyle’s War (2015) and The Crown (2016). He also appeared in the very first episode of Charlie Brooker’s anthology series Black Mirror back in 2011.

### Annette Badland plays Dr Fleur Perkins {#h-annette-badland-plays-dr-fleur-perkins}

Fleur is the chief forensic pathologist for the county of Midsomer. She has been married several times, and when she first joined the CID she was dating a vet. However, that relationship didn’t last and she is currently single. Fleur owns two motorcycles, which she calls Gladys and Brenda, and she drives a convertible.

**What else has Annette Badland been in?**

Annette’s major breakthrough came in the first three series of Bergerac, where she played Charlotte, the secretary at the Bureau des Étrangers, alongside fellow Midsomer Murders star John Nettles, between 1981 and 1984. In more recent years, she achieved notoriety as wicked Aunt Babe Smith, matriarch of the Carter family in EastEnders – a role she played between 2014 and 2017. She also played Brawdie Henshall in all four series of hairdressing drama Cutting It (2002-2005). Annette has clocked up a huge number of guest appearances in many of the best-known shows on British television, including Crossroads (1978), All Creatures Great And Small (1989), Casualty (various roles between 1990 and 2012), Poirot (2003), Coronation Street (2005), Doctor Who (2005), Not Going Out (2018), The Crown (2020), Silent Witness (2021) and Beyond Paradise (2023).

So, that’s all of Midsomer Murders’ current main cast of characters, but what about the many familiar faces who are no longer appearing in the show? And might we see any of them again in the future? Let’s meet all of the previous cast members…

### John Nettles played Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby {#h-john-nettles-played-detective-chief-inspector-tom-barnaby-nbsp}

The character of Tom Barnaby was originally created by English writer Caroline Graham for her Chief Inspector Barnaby series of novels, published between 1987 and 2004. Having previously worked for MI6, Tom became a DCI based in the town of Causton in south-east England, who travelled into the countryside to solve murders in a number of nearby villages in the county of Midsomer. Barnaby married Joyce (Jane Wymark) back in 1973, and the couple are parents to their adult daughter Cully (Laura Howard), who was born in 1978. Tom had three Detective Sergeants during his time investigating murders in Midsomer – DS Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey), DS Daniel Scott (John Hopkins) and DS Ben Jones (Jason Hughes). When Tom retired, he was succeeded by his cousin John Barnaby (Neil Dudgeon).

John Nettles is in the unusual position of having played not one, but two of British television’s most famous detectives! Before he played Tom Barnaby in Midsomer Murders, he became a household name in BBC1’s Jersey-set thriller Bergerac, in which he played Detective Sergeant Jim Bergerac between 1981 and 1991. John starred in all 87 episodes of the hugely popular show, and even made an encore appearance as Bergerac in a 1993 episode of Jasper Carrott’s sitcom The Detectives! Earlier in his career, John played Ian McKenzie in A Family At War (1971-1972) and Paul in The Liver Birds (1972-1976). He also made guest appearances in Robin Of Sherwood (1984), Boon (1992) and Heartbeat (2001). In more recent times, he has appeared in several episodes of Poldark (2016-2017) and as the narrator of Devon And Cornwall (2020-2021).

### Jane Wymark played Joyce Barnaby {#h-jane-wymark-played-joyce-barnaby}

Joyce is the long-suffering wife of Tom Barnaby (John Nettles), who is extremely patient with her workaholic husband. She initially wanted them to move out of their home in Causton, and into one of the Midsomer villages. However, she was subsequently put off by all the gruesome murders that seemed to happen there on a regular basis!

Aside from her role in Midsomer Murders, Jane is best known for playing Morwenna Chynoweth Whitworth in the original 1970s version of Poldark (1977). She has also made guest appearances in Maigret (1993), Lovejoy (1993), Pie In The Sky (1996), A Touch Of Frost (1997) and Dangerfield (1998).

### Daniel Casey played Detective Sergeant Gavin Troy {#h-daniel-casey-played-detective-sergeant-gavin-troy}

**Duration**: Series 1-7 (main cast), Series 11 (guest appearance)

DS Gavin Troy was Tom Barnaby’s first assistant. He was an ambitious officer who provided able support for his DCI. However, Gavin was also occasionally seen to be slightly backwards in some of his views, and was a particularly careless driver, being responsible for several near-fatal accidents! After being promoted to the rank of Inspector, Gavin was transferred to Northumbria. He did later return to Midsomer briefly to attend the wedding of Tom’s daughter Cully (Laura Howard).

Besides Midsomer Murders, Daniel is most recognised for playing Anthony Cox in Our Friends In The North (1996), and firefighter Tony Barnes in Steel River Blues (2004). He has made guest appearances in Inspector George Gently (2010), Marchlands (2011), Casualty (2012 and 2014), Coronation Street (2016), EastEnders (2017) and Emmerdale (2018).

### Barry Jackson played Dr George Bullard {#h-barry-jackson-played-dr-george-bullard}

George was the resident pathologist in Causton – a popular and professional doctor, who was respected throughout the community. He was a close friend of Tom Barnaby (John Nettles), and was married to Catherine, a physician at the Midsomer Market Medical Centre.

Barry, who died in 2013 aged 75, enjoyed an incredible career, which took off in the Sixties with roles in Cathy Come Home (1966), The Bofors Gun (1968) and Alfred The Great (1969). He also made his first appearance in Doctor Who in 1965, later returning as a different character in a 1979 storyline. His CV takes in many of British television’s most famous shows, including Z Cars (1962, 1967, 1971 and 1975), Dixon Of Dock Green (1967, 1969 and 1974), Softly Softly: Task Force (1969, 1972 and 1973), Doomwatch (1972), Crown Court (1973, 1976 and 1977), Poldark (1975-1976), The New Avengers (1976), The Onedin Line (1976 and 1978), Secret Army (1977), Blake’s 7 (1978), The Professionals (1978), Coronation Street (1978), All Creatures Great And Small (1980 and 1989), Minder (1984 and 1994), Lovejoy (1986), Bergerac (1990), The Bill (1991, 1996, 2001 and 2003), A Touch Of Frost (1994 and 2002), Heartbeat (1994, 2004 and 2006), Silent Witness (1997), Kavanagh QC (1998) and Holby City (2004).

### Toby Jones played Dr Dan Peterson {#h-toby-jones-played-dr-dan-peterson}

**Duration:** Series 2 (recurring) and 3 (main)

Dan was a pathologist at the Causton CID, who temporarily covered for Dr George Bullard (Barry Jackson) when he was away for a while.

Toby has enjoyed a hugely successful film career, as well as his work for the small screen. His cinema credits include Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), Dad’s Army (2016), and Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny (2023). He was also the voice of Dobby the House Elf in Harry Potter And The Chamber of Secrets (2002) and Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010). On television, he recently won huge praise for his role as sub-postmaster Alan Bates in Mr Bates Versus The Post Office (2024). His other credits include Lovejoy (1993), The Last Detective (2007), Doctor Who (2010), Agatha Christie’s Poirot (2010), Titanic (2012), Detectorists (2014-2017 and 2022), Sherlock (2017), and The Long Shadow (2023).

### John Hopkins played Detective Sergeant Daniel Scott {#h-john-hopkins-played-detective-sergeant-daniel-scott}

Daniel replaced DS Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey), and proved to be a lot cockier than his predecessor. Initially, he was unhappy to be transferred from London to Midsomer, considering it to be ‘out in the sticks’. This caused some tension between him and his superior officer, Tom Barnaby (John Nettles). However, their frosty relationship thawed after a while, with the pair gaining a grudging respect for one another. Daniel left the department quite abruptly, and was replaced by DS Ben Jones (Jason Hughes).

After leaving Midsomer Murders, John went on to appear as Rex Randall for a run of episodes in soap opera Family Affairs (2005). He has also guest-starred in Wire In The Blood (2008), Hotel Babylon (2009), Merlin (2010), Dancing On The Edge (2013), Endeavour (2016), Poldark (2017-2018), Masters Of The Air (2024) and Paris Has Fallen (2024). He often provides voices and motion capture performances for video game characters, including Erend in Horizon Zero Dawn.

### Jason Hughes played Detective Sergeant Benjamin Jones {#h-jason-hughes-played-detective-sergeant-benjamin-jones}

**Duration:** Series 9-15 (main role), Series 19 (guest appearance)

Ben became Tom Barnaby’s third junior partner after DS Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey) and DS Daniel Scott (John Hopkins). Unlike his two predecessors, Ben was initially a uniformed officer, before he was promoted from Detective Constable to Detective Sergeant. When Tom retired, Ben harboured hopes of taking over from him, and was disappointed when Tom’s cousin John (Neil Dudgeon) was appointed instead. However, Ben did later receive a promotion to Inspector, and he was transferred to Brighton.

Welsh-born Jason’s early roles were in London’s Burning (1994), The Bill (1995) and Peak Practice (1995), but he really came to prominence as lawyer Warren Jones in BBC2’s seminal drama This Life (1996-1997, with a reunion in 2007). Since then, he has guest-starred in Waking The Dead (2003), Mine All Mine (2004), :a[Death In Paradise]{href='https://www.tvchoicemagazine.co.uk/tv/death-in-paradise/meet-the-cast-of-death-in-paradise/' } (2017), Three Girls (2017), Marcella (2018) and The Pact (2021).

### Kirsty Dillon played Detective Constable Gail Stephens {#h-kirsty-dillon-played-detective-constable-gail-stephens}

DC Gail Stephens was transferred to Midsomer from Binwell. During her stay, she came close to having an affair with Sergeant Benjamin Jones (Jason Hughes), but she ultimately decided not to get romantically involved with a colleague.

Kirsty appeared in the 2004 BBC drama The Man That Broke Britain. She also has numerous other TV credits to her name, including Holby City (2000, 2010 and 2012), London’s Burning (2002), Casualty (2006 and 2014), Emmerdale (2015), Strike (2018), Man Like Mobeen (2019), MotherFatherSon (2019) and The Kindred (2021).

### Tamzin Malleson played Dr Kate Wilding {#h-tamzin-malleson-played-dr-kate-wilding}

Kate replaced Dr George Bullard (Barry Jackson) as the resident pathologist. Although she has never been married, she started a relationship with DS Benjamin Jones (Jason Hughes) while she was working in Midsomer. She later took up a professorship in Brighton, where she was reunited with Ben, who had already moved there.

**What else has Tamzin Malleson been in?**

Before Midsomer Murders, Tamzin was most recognisable for playing Alison Dangerfield in series three and four of BBC drama Dangerfield (1996-1997). She then went on to play Dr Kate Brady in Always And Everyone (2000-2001) and Penny Nevill in series two to four of Channel 4 comedy Teachers (2002-2004). Between 2004 and 2006, she portrayed Polly Grey in Bodies. She has also guest-starred in A Touch Of Frost (1996), Kavanagh QC (1996), Agatha Christie’s Poirot (2001), Boy Meets Girl (2009), Unforgotten (2015) and Marcella (2018).

### Gwilym Lee played Detective Sergeant Charlie Nelson {#h-gwilym-lee-played-detective-sergeant-charlie-nelson}

Meet the cast of Midsomer Murders!

See the stars at the TV Choice Awards 2025

**The 2025 TV Choice Awards have finally come to an end, and what a night it’s been!**

  
A dazzling celebration of glitz, glamour, and memorable moments. The stars have truly shined, the excitement has been electric, and now, the time has come to reveal who’s taken home the coveted prizes.

Let’s not keep you waiting any longer, the winners are...

Escape To The Country/I Escaped To The Country, Naked West A Fremantle Label for BBC1

They spend their days helping buyers find new rural homes, and the stars of this popular daytime stalwart are exploring a new area tonight – our stage! The show, which debuted in 2002, has had several spin-offs, including one that sees celebrities look for life-changing properties. A number of the show’s searchers join us tonight – including Briony May Williams who previously appeared on another shortlisted show – The Great British Bake Off.

   
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Daytime-Show-1.jpg)

Gogglebox /Celebrity Gogglebox, Studio Lambert Productions for Channel 4

Armchair critics come and go – with only Derby’s Siddiqui clan having appeared in every series since the show’s 2013 debut. But what doesn’t change is the nation’s appetite for watching households around Britain doing just the same as the rest of us: watching the box! And the celebrity spin-off is a great opportunity to have a nose at the homes of the stars as they chill and snack on their sofas.

Long Lost Family/Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace, Wall To Wall Media for ITV1   
  
It’s always an emotional watch when Nicky Campbell and Davina McCall get together for their show searching for missing relatives, which has also had versions in Australia, Finland, Norway and the USA. Their win this year is for the sixth run of programmes about foundlings, along with series 14 of the main show; which was, as ever, full of moving stories told with care and compassion.

  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Lifestyle-Show-2.jpg)

The Hairy Bikers Go West, South Shore Productions for BBC2

It’s a bittersweet first TV Choice victory for Si King, who wins for the final Hairy Bikers series made with the late and much-missed Dave Myers. Over nearly two decades the duo delighted viewers with over 30 TV series and specials, having originally met as members of the production team on a 1995 Robson Green drama.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Food-Show-1.jpg)  
  
  
**BEST REALITY SHOW**

I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here!, Lifted Entertainment for ITV Studios  
  
Other nominees must be wondering what it’s going to take to snatch the Reality prize away from Ant and Dec’s perennial winner. After 22 years and 24 series, we’re still tuning in every November to see which celebrities form unlikely new friendships when dumped in the Aussie jungle to be fed rice and beans. 2023 saw Made in Chelsea’s Sam Thompson named King of the Jungle before handing over the crown to McFly’s Danny Jones in 2024.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Reality-Show-1.jpg)  
  
  
**BEST NEW DRAMA**

Mr Bates vs The Post Office, ITV Studios/Little Gem TV for ITV1   
  
Few dramas have made a life-changing impact quite like Gwyneth Hughes’ series about one of Britain’s greatest miscarriages of justice. The Horizon scandal affected more than 900 sub-postmasters, with the Post Office’s misdemeanors eventually exposed after Alan Bates took the story to Computer Weekly. The series chronicling the shocking story has proved a multi award-winner for director James Strong, whose previous credits include Broadchurch and Downton Abbey.   
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-New-Drama-1.jpg)

Springtime On The Farm/Harvest On The Farm/Winter On The Farm, Daisybeck Studios for Channel 5

Daisybeck Studios – who fittingly are based right by Emmerdale’s studios – scoop a third award in a row for their Farm shows, based at the Nicholson family’s Cannon Hall Farm near Barnsley. Regular hosts include Helen Skelton and Jules Hudson, along with JB Gill, the JLS singer who has a successful sideline running his own farm supplying free-range pork and prize-winning turkeys!  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Factual-Show.jpg)  
  
  
**BEST COMEDY SHOW**

Ghosts, Monumental Television/Them There for BBC1

We’ve paid our last visit to Button House, as Ghosts ended after series five, although the American spin-off is still going strong. The much-loved story of Mike and Alison’s haunted house proved another hit for Them There, the troupe of writers and performers who were best known for Horrible Histories before creating, writing and starring in Ghosts.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Comedy-Show-1.jpg)

Strictly Come Dancing/Strictly: It Takes Two, BBC Studios for BBC1

Last year BBC1’s celebration of fancy footwork celebrated 20 years on screen and tonight it waltzes away with the Best Talent Show Award. We might know the demands of the different dances by now, but each year brings surprises – like the competition’s first blind contestant, Chris McCausland, becoming the latest champion.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Talent-Show-1.jpg)  
  
**BEST FAMILY DRAMA**

Call The Midwife, Neal Street Productions for BBC1

This is the tenth victory for Heidi Thomas’s drama based around the nuns and nurses at Nonnatus House. The Sunday night staple is now in its 14th run, with stars Jenny Agutter and Laura Main having appeared in every one of its 119 episodes. Megan Cusack and Rebecca Gethings are among the newer recruits and the action has now reached 1970 in Poplar – with the hit drama commissioned to return in 2026.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Family-Drama.jpg)

  
**FAVOURITE CHANNEL / STREAMING SERVICE**

It’s nearly 28 years since Channel 5 started broadcasting, launching shows like the soap Family Affairs and finding a loyal young fanbase for its Milkshake! children’s programming. Their schedule regularly features stripped dramas starring some of Britain’s favourite actors and it’s become the go-to channel for rural matters, with hits like The Yorkshire Vet as well the On The Farm series and drama All Creatures Great And Small, fellow winners tonight.

![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Favourite-Streaming-Channel.jpg)

Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel, Hungry McBear for BBC1

For the first time, Michael McIntyre wins with the game show he created while brainstorming in the bath! The most recent series debuted a double chair, with celebrities spinning including Danny and Dani Dyer, while both Michael and Ayda Field got a surprise when she came on with husband Robbie Williams as her subject – and he then popped up as a contestant!  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Game-Show-1.jpg)

Toby Jones, Mr Bates vs The Post Office, ITV Studios/Little Gem TV for ITV1

Toby – son of the late Freddie Jones – had won acclaim for Marvellous, a BAFTA for Detectorists and been awarded an OBE before landing our Best Drama Performance prize for his portrayal of the ultimate people’s champion, Alan Bates, who was himself knighted last year. Always in-demand Toby will soon be seen in upcoming dramas about Ruth Ellis and the newspaper phone-hacking scandal.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Drama-Performance.jpg)

All Creatures Great And Small, Playground Entertainment for C5

Fans were thrilled when the company behind The Missing and Wolf Hall decided to make a new adaptation of James Herriot’s beloved stories of life as a Yorkshire vet. Starring Samuel West, Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton, the series already has five hit seasons under its belt, and tonight scoops its first TV Choice trophy.

![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Drama-Series.jpg)

Nicola Coughlan, Big Mood, Dancing Ledge Productions for Channel 4

The former Derry Girls star made a big impression on this year’s Awards, with her shows Bridgerton and Big Mood shortlisted while she’s also made the list for her performances in both. Nicola takes home the Best Comedy Performance for her role as Maggie, starring alongside Lydia West as her best friend Eddie.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Comedy-Performance.jpg)

Based on the novels by crime writer Ann Cleeves, Vera gave ITV and Silverprint Pictures a smash hit which ran for 14 series, before DCI Vera Stanhope bade farewell in early January. Having enjoyed a glittering career including wins at the Golden Globes, BAFTAs and Cannes, Ramsgate-born Brenda Blethyn proved perfect casting as the no-nonsense Northumberland detective rarely seen without her trademark mac and hat.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Outstanding-Contribution-1.jpg)  
  
  
**BEST SOAP NEWCOMER**

Beth Cordingly, Ruby Fox-Miligan, Emmerdale, ITV Studios Production for ITV1

Though she might have won our Soap Newcomer prize, Beth is no TV rookie, having made a big impression as The Bill’s Kerry Young back in 2002. A regular theatre performer, Beth is now having a ball playing fiery Ruby in Emmerdale, the show in which her real-life partner Ian Kelsey found fame as Dave Glover.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Soap-Newcomer-1.jpg)

Peter Ash, Paul Foreman, Coronation Street, ITV Studios Production for ITV1

Viewers were deeply moved by the storyline that saw Paul – real name Apollo – succumb to MND, leaving his new husband, vicar Billy Mayhew, bereft. Peter, whose second cousin William Ash plays Emmerdale’s Caleb, had previous credits including Casualty, Footballers Wives and Hollyoaks before landing the role of Gemma’s twin brother.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Soap-Performance-1.jpg)

Emmerdale, ITV Studios Production for ITV1

Last year’s winners triumph again, after another dramatic twelve months in the village. 2024 saw two prominent soap transfers, as former Coronation Street stars Paula Lane and Oliver Farnworth joined the show, while characters including Samson, Nate and Nicky all said goodbye to the Dales. Major storylines this year included Belle’s abuse at the hands of her husband Tom and Moira’s battle with cancer.  
  
![](https://images.bauerhosting.com/marketing/sites/26/2025/01/TVCA25-1600x900-Landscape-Best-Soap-1.jpg)

  
And with that, we conclude another incredible TV Choice Awards. A big thank you to everyone who took part in the voting and was with us every step of the way. We couldn’t have done it without you. Until next year, we’ll keep celebrating the shows and stars that bring us together.

With the TV Choice Awards just around the corner, bringing glitz, glamour, and all your favourite stars to one unforgettable night, we’re excited to announce that the winner of our competition has been selected at random!

The lucky winner, **Julie Mathurin from Dagenham, Essex**, has been contacted and will soon be joining us for an amazing evening, celebrating the stars and shows that have kept us all glued to our screens the past year.

A huge thank you to everyone who entered and showed their love for TV’s biggest night! Keep an eye out for more updates, surprises, and behind-the-scenes moments as we count down to the big event. It’s going to be one to remember!

TV Choice Awards 2025 - the night everyone’s talking about!

# What’s on TV this Christmas? Our guide to the best festive picks this Christmas

Christmastime of course means mistletoe and wine… but it also means the best TV of the year. And there's a lot on! So TV Choice writers Nick Fiaca, Tom Spilsbury, Cecile Metcalf, David Collins, Jim Maloney, Martina Fowler and Mark Peters have scoured the listings for us and picked out the 12 best things to watch on TV this Christmas.

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It’s Christmas in Saint Marie and there’s a seemingly impossible case to crack when two Santas are murdered and there’s an attempt on the life of a third. Perplexingly, they were all shot with the same gun in different locations at exactly the same time!

Also complicating matters is that the Honoré police are without a lead detective following Neville Parker’s departure last series with his love interest DS Florence Cassell. Fortunately, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson enlists the reluctant help of DI Mervin Wilson, who is visiting the island, to capture the festive felon. \[Nick Fiaca\]

**Sky Max/Sky Showcase • Sun 22 Dec 7.30pm**

First, here’s the bad news. There’s no new _Not Going Out_ this year. But if you’re a fan of Lee Mack’s farcical family sitcom, this should prove to be even better – a feature-length comedy adventure, in which he teams up with comedian Chris McCausland!

Lee and Chris play Neil and Scott, two bickering neighbours who must put aside their petty squabbles to foil the plans of a criminal family, the Brennans, who are planning to rob their street at Christmas! \[:a[Tom Spilsbury]{href='https://www.tvchoicemagazine.co.uk/author/tom-spilsbury/' }\]

It’s Christmas 1941, and as the war shows no signs of abating, the Darrowby vets are settling in for another frugal festive season. However, everything pales into insignificance when a news bulletin announces that HMS Repulse – the vessel on which Mrs Hall’s son Edward is serving – has been sunk by Japanese warplanes. \[:a[Tom Spilsbury]{href='https://www.tvchoicemagazine.co.uk/author/tom-spilsbury/' }\]

This adaptation of Julia Donaldson's children's book is narrated by theatre actor and TV legend Hannah Waddingham. It follows a little blue fish called Tiddler (voiced by Reuben Kirby), who loves to make up stories about why he’s always late for school. After getting captured by a fishing boat, he escapes and finds his way back home through the power of his storytelling. \[Cecile Metcalf\]

## Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special

She’s a well-known face on stage and screen, and now _The Wives_ star Tamzin Outhwaite hopes to add _Strictly_ champion to her list of accolades. Partnering with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin, Tamzin will compete alongside comedian Josh Widdicombe, drag artist Tayce, racing driver Billy Monger, podcaster Vogue Williams and Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, AKA Nitro.

‘I wrongly thought the Christmas special was a lighthearted version of the main competition but it’s more challenging than expected!’ says Tamzin, 54. ‘I’m loving it already and I’m really enjoying the creative process of rehearsing with Nikita. I don’t think my body could take doing the main show! I thought I’d just pop in, wear some mistletoe, have a dance, then pop out, but it’s tricky not to take it seriously.’ \[Cecile Metcalf\]

Last time we saw the Doctor, he’d just parted ways with yet another companion. So how is he coping now? The festive episode finds him at the mysterious Time Hotel, which promises its guests the chance to experience ‘Christmas, everywhere, all at once’. The Doctor is a seasoned time traveller, of course, but this hotel has turned different periods of history into tourist attractions! Nicola Coughlan guest-stars. \[:a[Tom Spilsbury]{href='https://www.tvchoicemagazine.co.uk/author/tom-spilsbury/' }\]

It’s more than 30 years since they last encountered their supervillain nemesis, Feathers McGraw, but now he’s back to cause havoc for Wallace and Gromit in their latest feature-length adventure. Despite being behind bars, Feathers works out a way to sabotage Wallace’s latest invention, a smart gnome… \[Nick Fiaca\]

Nessa got down on one knee and proposed to Smithy five years ago, and fans of popular comedy _Gavin & Stacey_ have been waiting ever since to see what happened next. It now returns for a final episode to answer that question – and maybe even reveal what really transpired on Bryn and Jason’s mysterious fishing trip! \[David Collins\]

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**BBC1 • Christmas Day 8.00pm & Boxing Day 7.30pm**

The festive season is all about tradition – and so is this much-loved show, which has been lighting up our Christmas Day viewing schedules since 2012. This year, Fred dons his Santa outfit to visit kids in hospital, Nonnatus House continues to fight cutbacks, Trixie pops in, and there are heartwarming births – plus a liberal sprinkling of jeopardy, romance, carol singing and snow! \[Jim Maloney\]

The Brockmans are back – and middle-aged couple Pete (Hugh Dennis) and Sue (Claire Skinner) are living in a downsized house and have become grandparents, as oldest son Jake is a father.

‘He’s dealing with the usual things that new parents might experience, such as a lack of sleep,’ says Tyger Drew-Honey, 28, who plays Jake. ‘In the grand scheme of things, he’s doing well. He seems to have turned out a nice rounded young man, and I think that’s largely due to the fact that – as people witnessed over the years – he was part of a very loving family.’ \[David Collins\]

**ITV1 • New Year's Day 8.00pm & Thurs 2 Jan 8.00pm**

After 14 years in the role, Brenda Blethyn is stepping down from playing the grumpy-but-kind-hearted detective. Vera’s final two cases see her called to the banks of the Tyne, where a body has been found by anglers, and to the foot of three mythical monoliths known as ‘The Dark Wives’ to investigate a student’s death and a missing girl. \[Martina Fowler\]

A Christmas murder and a psychotic ex-husband are just two of the hurdles Suki and Eve have encountered on their path to wedded bliss. But despite everything that’s been thrown at them, their love has endured and it’s all systems go for their New Year’s Day wedding – if they can stay out of Nish’s clutches. Having escaped from prison, he’s now hell-bent on revenge… \[Mark Peters\]

The 12 best shows for Christmas 2024

**The festive season is almost here, and with it comes the much-anticipated Christmas TV schedule!**

The TV Choice Christmas bumper special is your one-stop guide to the bewildering choice of TV, movies, and entertainment this Christmas. Packed with exclusive interviews, top recommendations, and a sneak peek into what's coming in 2025, this special edition is the perfect companion for the holiday season.

**We talk to all of your favourite TV stars**   
In this year's Christmas issue, we sit down with some of your beloved TV stars to hear all about their festive plans. Whether it's behind-the-scenes gossip from your favourite soaps, sneak peeks at upcoming dramas, or reflections on their most memorable Christmas episodes, we’ve got it covered..

**The best, and easiest to use TV listings**   
Finding what to watch during the busy Christmas period can be tricky, but we’ve made it easier than ever with our user-friendly TV listings. From Christmas Eve through to New Year’s Day, we’ve curated the best schedule of seasonal specials, must-see episodes, and family favourites. No need to flip through endless channels - just pick up the TV Choice Christmas bumper special issue and let us guide you to all the festive TV magic!

**The top shows to watch - day-by-day**   
Wondering which shows to watch each day? We’ve got a day-by-day breakdown of the very best programmes to tune into, from heartwarming Christmas dramas to hilarious comedy specials. Whether you’re in the mood for a tear-jerking Christmas film, a feel-good family show, or an exciting new drama, we’ve handpicked the top shows so you won’t miss a thing.

**Everything new arriving on streaming**   
If you’re planning to binge-watch your way through the holidays, we’ve rounded up all the exciting new releases hitting streaming platforms this season. From Christmas-themed series to the latest episodes of your favourite shows, we’ve got all the info on what’s available to stream. Whether it’s Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney+, we’ve made sure you’ll never run out of fresh content to enjoy this Christmas.

**All of the big Christmas movies**   
No Christmas is complete without a few classic festive films, and we’ve got a comprehensive list of all the holiday movies you’ll want to see. From timeless favourites like _Home Alone_ and _Love Actually_ to this year’s big Christmas blockbusters, you won’t be short of holiday cheer. Plus, we’ve included details on all the Christmas movie premieres, so you can plan your movie marathons in advance!

**Your Christmas sport and movie planners**   
For sports fans, we’ve got the ultimate Christmas Sport Planner, featuring all the major games and events to watch during the festive period. Whether you’re into football, rugby, or boxing, our guide ensures you won’t miss any of the action. Plus, our Movie Planner highlights the best film line-ups and holiday specials, so you can create the perfect viewing schedule for every member of the family.

**All of the latest soap gossip**   
We know you can’t get enough of your favourite soaps, so we’ve gathered all the latest gossip, spoilers, and storylines from _EastEnders_, _Coronation Street_, _Emmerdale_, and more. Find out what’s coming up in your soap opera this Christmas, from shocking twists to heartwarming moments.

**Previewing what’s to come in 2025**   
Get a sneak peek into the future with our exclusive preview of 2025’s most exciting TV shows and films. From new series to returning favourites, we’ve got the lowdown on the big things to look forward to in the new year.

**Huge competitions**   
To make your Christmas even merrier, we’ve included a series of fantastic competitions with prizes ranging from tech gadgets to TV show merchandise. It’s your chance to win big this Christmas!

**Our Christmas quiz and puzzles**   
Get into the festive spirit with our fun Christmas quiz and puzzles. Challenge your friends and family to a TV-themed trivia contest, or tackle our tricky word searches and crosswords for the ultimate holiday entertainment.

**Great value for money**   
Not only does the TV Choice Christmas bumper special issue offer great entertainment, but it also delivers incredible value. Packed with a range of features, puzzles, and exclusive offers, this issue gives you the most bang for your buck. It’s the gift that keeps on giving - perfect for the holiday season.

TV Choice is the UK’s biggest selling magazine for a reason! With everything you need to make this Christmas the best one yet, so don’t miss out on this must-have edition – on sale now in all good newsagents!

Out now! The TV Choice Christmas issue: Your ultimate guide to TV this festive season

Laughter really is the best medicine, and the TV Choice Awards’ Best Comedy Show category is here to celebrate the funniest, most feel-good shows that keep us all smiling! Whether it's quick-witted comebacks, quirky characters, or those moments that have you rewinding for a second laugh, this category is all about the TV shows that brighten our days and give us endless belly laughs. Got a favourite comedy that turns your bad day around, or has you quoting lines with your mates? Now’s your chance to give it the recognition it deserves! Cast your vote and help crown the funniest show on TV!

The 2025 TV Choice Awards is a star-studded event where we celebrate the best of the year's TV, and the glitzy ceremony will be taking place at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Monday 10 February. There are 18 awards crowning winners in categories from Best New Drama to Best Lifestyle Show, and everything in between. Hosted by presenter and comedian Jason Manford, the 28th TV Choice Awards promises to be an evening of excitement as we honour the stars and shows that you have enjoyed the most over the last year!

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Vote for Best Comedy Show at the 2025 TV Choice Awards

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Attention, drama lovers!  The Best New Drama category at the TV Choice Awards is where the hottest, most binge-worthy series get their time to shine. You know the ones – the shows that had you glued to the screen, texting friends, “You need to watch this!”, and staying up late for just one more episode. Whether it’s heart-pounding thrillers, jaw-dropping twists, or emotional rollercoasters that made you laugh, cry, and scream at your TV, these dramas kept us hooked from the opening scenes. These are the must-watch series that became your latest obsession of the year. Show some love for your favourites and cast your vote!

The 2025 TV Choice Awards is a star-studded event where we celebrate the best of the year's TV, and the glitzy ceremony will be taking place at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Monday 10 February. There are 18 awards crowning winners in categories from Best Food Show to Best Reality Show, and everything in between. Hosted by presenter and comedian Jason Manford, the 28th TV Choice Awards promises to be an evening of excitement as we honour the stars and shows that you have enjoyed the most over the last year.

Cast your vote and you could be joining the stars on the night at this prestigious event with a three-course dinner and exclusive after-party. We'll be picking, at random, one voter and inviting them and their guest along to this exclusive awards ceremony event and after-party, plus a night's stay in a top London hotel. So what are you waiting for? Cast your vote now!

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Get ready to celebrate the funniest stars on TV! The Best Comedy Performance category at the TV Choice Awards recognises the talented actors who make us laugh week after week. Whether it's through quirky characters, perfectly timed jokes, sarcastic comebacks, or those hilarious awkward moments you just can't stop replaying, these stars know how to deliver the laughs. If there’s someone who brightens your day with their comedic genius, now’s your chance to show them some love! Cast your vote, cheer them on, and honour the incredible talents that keep us entertained and bring us endless laughter.

The 2025 TV Choice Awards is a star-studded event where we celebrate the best of the year's TV, and the glitzy ceremony will be taking place at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Monday 10 February. There are 18 awards crowning winners in categories from Best Reality Show to Best Factual Show, and everything in between. Hosted by presenter and comedian Jason Manford, the 28th TV Choice Awards promises to be an evening of excitement as we honour the stars and shows that you have enjoyed the most over the last year!

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