The star-studded event returned to ITV1 tonight
Gary Lineker in the press room after winning the TV Presenter Award at the National Television Awards(Image: Ian West/PA Wire)
Gary Lineker has made history at the National Television Awards 2025. The iconic night returned for its 30th year for one of the most star-studded events in the TV calendar. A whole host of stars arrived on the red carpet outside The O2 Arena in London.
The evening opened with a phenomenal performance from McFly, before Michael McIntryre scooped up the first prize of the night. He triumphed in the category for The Bruce Forsyth Entertainment Award, up against The Graham Norton Show, The Masked Singer and Would I Lie To You?.
Jeremy Clarkson scooped up the prize for best factual entertainment, followed by Steve MacFadden who claimed the trophy for best serial drama performance.
But it was Gary Lineker who made history as he won the award for best TV presenter in one of the most intense categories of the night. The Match Of The Day presenter was up against Alison Hammond, Ant and Dec, Claudia Winkleman and Stacey Solomon for the prestigious award.
Viewers took to social media as Lineker accepted the prize. One fan said: “Yes, Gary!!! Back of the net!” A second added: “Congratulations Gary Lineker a true gentleman and hero.”
A third said: “Woooooow finally well done Gary Lineker. DESERVED.” A fourth also wrote: “Gary Lineker breaking the Ant & Dec streak!!!”
As Gary accepted the award, he joked: “Blimey – I’ve won the Ant and Dec trophy!” The Geordie presenting duo have won the award every year for the past 23 years.
Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly during the NTAs 2024(Image: John Phillips/Getty Images for the NTA’s)
Viewers first fell in love with Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnolly in the 1990s when they appeared on children’s Saturday morning show Gimme 5.
They have now racked up a whole host of TV credits, including Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway and I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.
Gary Lineker has finally broken Ant and Dec’s winning streak which has lasted over two decades. Accpeting the award, he told viewers it “means the world”.
Later in the show, Lee Mack accepted the award for best quiz show for The 1% Club. In the middle of his speech, he took the time to congratulate Gary. He said: “I’m so happy Gary Lineker won I can’t tell you, well done Gary”
Gary announced he would be leaving his role on Match of the Day last November. He later announced in May he is stepping away from the BBC completely.
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