Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 10, 2024 4:53 am GMT
Joel Dommett Hints at Surprises at National Television Awards Amid Scandals
The National Television Awards (NTAs), one of the UK’s most celebrated television events, is set to take place at the O2 in London tonight. Host Joel Dommett has hinted at potential surprises during this year’s ceremony, despite the controversies that have recently rocked several nominated shows, including the BBC’s “Strictly Come Dancing.”
Acknowledging Recent Scandals
The scandals that have dominated entertainment news in recent months include the controversial exit of prominent dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima from “Strictly Come Dancing.” Following these high-profile departures, the show received a nomination for the Talent Show category, which will be determined by viewer votes.
Dommett addressed the impact of these events on audience perceptions, stating, “People want to know what we are projecting on telly is real and genuine.” He highlighted the importance of trust between television personalities and their viewers, indicating that scandals can lead to increased skepticism regarding the authenticity of on-screen characters. “When someone’s at home watching This Morning, Strictly, whatever, they want to know that this character that they love on telly is the same person in the dressing room or in their house,” he explained.
Strictly’s Loyal Fanbase
Despite the backdrop of scandal, Dommett remains optimistic about “Strictly’s” chances at the NTAs. He believes that the show’s massive popularity and loyal following could provide a buffer against any lingering mistrust resulting from recent events. “Shows like Strictly are so big, and it takes a lot to rock these things sometimes,” he remarked.
The NTAs will showcase a range of popular shows competing for top honors. Dommett noted that “Strictly” faces stiff competition, particularly from shows like “The Traitors,” which has gained immense popularity over the past year. Previous winners of the TV Presenter category, Ant and Dec, have held their title for an impressive 22 consecutive years. “If anyone was going to give Ant and Dec a run for their money, I think it would be Claudia Winkleman,” Dommett suggested.
Exciting Developments for the Ceremony
As host, Dommett is determined to deliver an entertaining experience for viewers. He teased an unusual opening number, saying, “It felt like we needed to do something a little bit different.” He admitted that the concept entails significant effort and potential risks, humorously adding that he’s not opposed to making mistakes on live television. “I like to just scare myself every now and again,” he said. His comments reveal a commitment to pushing creative boundaries while maintaining entertainment value.
In addition to his hosting duties, Dommett will welcome musical guest Olly Murs, who is set to perform some of his biggest hits. The two share a long-standing friendship, making Murs’s presence a personal touch to the evening. Dommett described Murs as “a wonderful human being and a consummate pro,” emphasizing the celebratory atmosphere that surrounds the NTAs this year.
After the Ceremony
Behind the scenes, Dommett is also planning a backstage gathering to celebrate the event with his team and friends. He expressed excitement about the festivities, stating, “Maybe afterwards I’ll have a couple of beers, a couple of champagnes,” adding a relatable touch to the otherwise glamorous event. The host reflects a sense of camaraderie among those in the industry, underscoring the social connections formed within the television community.
As the NTAs approach, audiences are left wondering how this year’s scandals will influence viewer votes and the overall outcome of the awards. Will “Strictly Come Dancing” manage to rise above the controversies and claim victory? The answers will unfold during tonight’s ceremony as Dommett aims to create a memorable evening for both attendees and viewers at home.
For those interested in the latest updates relating to the awards and televised events, the NTAs promise to deliver an evening filled with intrigue, surprises, and perhaps even a few unexpected twists. As the celebration of television continues, all eyes will be on who walks away with the coveted trophies.
The National Television Awards is a fun event where people celebrate their favorite TV shows and stars. You can learn more about it by checking out their official website.
