British Soap Awards 'cancelled amid COVID pandemic'

The British Soap Awards have reportedly been cancelled for the second year running because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The glitzy ceremony – which sees gongs handed out to the best soaps and soap performances - was due to take place in June.

However, according to the Daily Star, bosses made the decision to cancel it earlier this week.

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The publication quoted an ITV spokesperson as saying: “As a result of the pandemic, and following careful consideration of the ongoing safety measures in place for both drama productions and live events, ITV can confirm that the British Soap Awards will not take place this year.”

An insider said the awards are “the highlight of the year for everyone in the soaps” but that everyone understands why it has been called off this year.

“It’s a chance for everyone to celebrate the hard work they’ve put in throughout the year. It’s also a chance for everyone to see each other and have a bit of a night out,” added the source.

Last year’s event was also cancelled because of the pandemic and a one-off episode of highlights celebrating the best of the soap awards from the previous 21 years aired in its place.

At the time bosses expressed their hope that the ceremony would return “bigger and better” in 2021.

The ITV ceremony has taken place annually ever since it was founded in 1999.

This Morning star Phillip Schofield has been the main host associated with the awards.

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He presented it with his former This Morning co-star Fern Britton between 2006 and 2008 before going solo for the next 11 years.

Yahoo has contacted ITV for comment.

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