The National Television Awards 2026 took place at London’s O2 arena, celebrating the best in television with a mix of joy and heartfelt moments. The event brought together a wide array of celebrities, including stars from popular shows such as The Chase, Strictly Come Dancing, The Traitors, and Line of Duty, as well as presenters and personalities from This Morning and other well-known programs. One of the most emotional highlights of the evening was the award for authored documentary, presented by Holly Willoughby. The nominees included documentaries on high-profile figures such as Caroline Flack, Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, Jesy Nelson, and Sir Chris Hoy. However, the award was ultimately given to the documentary Our Girls: The Southport Families, which focused on the lives of families affected by the tragic Southport attack in 2023. The parents of the young girls who were killed, including Jenni Stancombe, the mother of Elsie Dot Stancombe, accepted the award. Stancombe, visibly emotional, said, "I can't believe I'm stood here. This is a documentary that should never have been made." The moment resonated deeply with both the audience and viewers at home, many of whom were moved to tears. Social media reactions reflected the documentary’s emotional impact, with many expressing their condolences and support for the families involved. The recognition of such a difficult subject highlighted the power of television to address challenging and important issues. Another touching moment came with the special recognition award, which honors someone who is unaware of their nomination. This year, the award was given to Alan Carr, a popular comedian known for his work on Celebrity Traitors. The tribute featured a compilation of his best moments and was both heartfelt and emotional. Carr, visibly moved, expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the support he has received from colleagues and fans alike. The event also included other memorable moments, such as Paloma Faith’s surprise appearance and the presentation of various other awards. The night ended with a sense of unity and celebration, underscoring the role of television in bringing people together and honoring those who have made significant contributions to the industry.