‘Rivals is simply the full package (excuse the pun)’
Happy Prince’s adaptation of the second book in Dame Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles series, tells the tale of feuding television producers in 1986 Cotswolds, blending together glamour, romance, and rivalry while allowing Cooper’s humour to shine through.
The judges felt the producers struck the right balance, praising everything from the writing (produced by a writers’ room led Dominic Treadwell-Collins and Laura Wade, who met with 60 writers to find the right team) to the show’s aesthetic and the “funny, camp and highly entertaining” world it invited viewers into.
Despite being set in the mid-80s, the show holds up a mirror to today, drawing out the political and social relevance with a diversity of thought across gender, race, and experience. The show’s relevance has struck a chord with its audience: judges commended the show’s ability to tap into the zeitgeist of 2025, and said that they adored discussing the show with friends and colleagues.
The judges also praised the “fantastic performances” of the ensemble cast, which included (included David Tennant, Aidan Turner, Danny Dyer, Nafessa Williams and Katherine Parkinson), commenting on how “well cast” the show is.
Shortlisted
A Thousand Blows
The Story Collective, Matriarch Productions & Water & Power Productions for Disney+
Focussing on the Victorian boxing scene, this show contends with themes of racism, sexism, greed, and revenge, but also friendship and heroism. Thoroughly researched (with the help of social historians including David Olusuga), A Thousand Blows has received rave reviews since its launch.
Sweetpea
See-Saw Films & Fanboy in assoc with Sky Studios for Sky Atlantic
This dark and comedic feminist coming-of-rage story sets out to give voice to the anger of the underdog. Ella Purnell’s nuanced and sympathetic portrayal of Rhiannon has won praise from The Daily Telegraph, the Evening Standard, and the Radio Times among others, cementing her as a rising star.
The Day of the Jackal
Carnival Films, part of Universal International Studios, Universal Studio Group for Sky Atlantic
The Day of the Jackal is a twisting thriller about a hitman and a skilled agent engaging in espionage, subterfuge, and violence. The series has been praised for its brilliant performances, good writing, and gripping action. The show has been recognised for its very high production value, showcasing Carnival’s skill in telling culturally relevant stories.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz
Synchronicity Films, Sky Studios & All3Media International for Sky Atlantic
Through the memories of one survivor, the series aims to shine a light on the strength of the human spirit. A section of the Birkenau camp was recreated alongside impressive VFX, and the participation of Jewish members of the cast ensured as much authenticity as possible. The first episode earned an impressive 1.7m viewers.
Where The Light Gets In
Drummer TV for LumoTV
This show explores mental health in the Deaf community and the struggles of balancing work and family life. Despite the challenge of a low budget, the team has created a film that uses cinematic language for a Deaf audience, with high production values, cinematic quality, and outstanding performances.
AWARD SPONSORED BY Garden Studios
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