Gary Lineker Ends Ant & Dec's Reign: National Television Awards Upset

Michael

3 min read

Post on Sep 12, 2025

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Gary Lineker Ends Ant & Dec's Reign: National Television Awards Upset

The National Television Awards (NTAs) 2024 delivered a shockwave that reverberated across the UK: Gary Lineker snatched the Best Presenter gong, ending Ant & Dec's unprecedented 20-year winning streak. The unexpected victory sent social media into a frenzy and sparked debate about the changing landscape of British television presenting.

This year's NTAs, held at the O2 Arena in London, were anticipated to be another coronation for the Geordie duo, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly. Their dominance in the Best Presenter category had become almost legendary, a testament to their enduring popularity and undeniable chemistry on shows like I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! and Britain's Got Talent. However, the night unfolded differently, leaving viewers and pundits alike stunned.

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<h3>Lineker's Triumph: A New Era for NTA's?</h3>

Lineker's win, accepting the award for his work on the BBC's Match of the Day, represents a significant shift in the awards' history. While his presenting skills are undeniably respected, the sheer longevity of Ant & Dec's reign made his victory all the more surprising. The veteran football presenter, known for his sharp wit and calm demeanor, offered a gracious acceptance speech, acknowledging the achievements of Ant & Dec and expressing his gratitude to the viewers. His win could signal a changing tide in the preferences of NTA voters, potentially reflecting a broader shift in viewing habits and audience demographics.

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<h3>Social Media Erupts: #NTAs2024 Trends</h3>

The internet exploded with reactions immediately following the announcement. #NTAs2024 and #GaryLineker trended worldwide, with a mixture of celebratory messages for Lineker and expressions of surprise (and some disappointment) from Ant & Dec's loyal fanbase. Many debated the merits of each presenter's contribution to British television, sparking lively discussions about the evolution of presenting styles and the impact of changing broadcasting landscapes. The social media buzz underscores the significant cultural impact of the NTAs and the enduring appeal of its presenter awards.

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<h3>Ant & Dec's Reaction and Legacy:</h3>

While the reaction from Ant & Dec themselves remains to be seen in full detail, initial reports suggest they were gracious in defeat. Their two-decade reign cemented their place in British television history, influencing countless presenters and shaping the entertainment landscape. Their consistent success highlights their remarkable talent, adaptability, and unwavering connection with the British public. Regardless of this year's outcome, their contribution to the entertainment world remains undeniable.

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<h3>What Does the Future Hold for the NTAs?</h3>

Lineker's unexpected win throws open the question: what will the future hold for the NTAs' Best Presenter category? Will this be a one-off upset, or a sign of things to come? Will we see more unexpected winners in the future, challenging the established order? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: the 2024 NTAs delivered a memorable and unexpected night of television. The event has certainly generated considerable conversation and anticipation for next year’s awards ceremony.

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Call to Action: What are your thoughts on Gary Lineker's win? Share your opinion in the comments below! Let's discuss the future of the NTAs and the ever-evolving world of television presenting.