The 2025 BAFTA Television Awards, held at London’s Royal Festival Hall, delivered a powerful celebration of the UK’s television landscape—with a night that also saw several standout wins by Black British talent.
Lennie James – Leading Actor for Mr Loverman
Lennie James earned the Leading Actor award for his powerful performance in Mr Loverman, an adaptation of Bernardine Evaristo’s acclaimed novel. James brought depth, humour, and humanity to the role of Barrington Jedidiah Walker, a man confronting identity and love later in life.
Ariyon Bakare – Best Supporting Actor for Mr Loverman
Also recognised for Mr Loverman, Ariyon Bakare took home Best Supporting Actor. His performance added a compelling layer to the series, helping build the emotional resonance that made it one of the year’s standout dramas.
Gbemisola Ikumelo – Female Performance in a Comedy for Black Ops
Gbemisola Ikumelo was awarded for her role in Black Ops, a sharp and witty comedy-thriller she also co-created. Her comedic timing and nuanced performance brought energy and originality to a show that has become a breakout hit.
Nicôle Lecky’s Mood – Best Mini-Series
Mood, created by and starring Nicôle Lecky, won Best Mini-Series. Adapted from her one-woman play Superhoe, the show offers a bold take on the intersection of social media, fame, and self-discovery. Lecky’s storytelling struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.
Mawaan Rizwan – Male Performance in a Comedy for Juice
Mawaan Rizwan picked up the award for Male Performance in a Comedy for Juice, a vibrant, visually inventive show that blends surrealism with heartfelt moments. His performance anchored the show’s unique tone and emotional impact.
Other Highlights
Jessica Gunning won Best Supporting Actress for Baby Reindeer, and Marisa Abela took Leading Actress for her role in Industry. Blue Lights won Best Drama Series, while Mr Bates vs The Post Office earned Best Limited Drama.
The 2025 BAFTAs marked a year of strong performances across the board, with richly told stories and memorable characters at the centre. For British television, it was a night of confident, boundary-pushing work—with Black British actors and creators playing a central role in many of the evening’s most celebrated moments.
