Every year, soap fans eagerly tune in to celebrate their favourite TV dramas at the British Soap Awards.
It’s a night packed with excitement, glitz, and some unexpected emotions — but this year, the show wasn’t just about the winners.
It also sparked plenty of conversation online, especially after a major upset left one star looking downright furious.
Luca Toolan’s Heartbreaking Loss at the Awards
Coronation Street fans watching the ceremony from home spotted something pretty unusual — Luca Toolan, the actor behind Mason Radcliffe, had a really disappointed look on his face.
The 21-year-old’s character had a dramatic exit earlier this year, a gripping death scene where Mason was stabbed by his own brothers in a powerful storyline about knife crime.
Luca was nominated for Best Single Episode for this scene, which was a highlight of the soap’s intense storytelling.
But when the award went instead to EastEnders for their flashback episode featuring Phil Mitchell’s mental health struggles, many viewers felt that Coronation Street had been robbed.
Fans Rally Behind Mason’s Storyline
Social media was buzzing with reactions to Luca’s visible frustration.
Fans were quick to share their support and disappointment.
Comments ranged from simple sympathy — “Luca looked gutted” — to passionate calls that the award should have been his.
Many praised the Coronation Street storyline for its depth and important social message on knife crime.
Viewers argued it was one of the most compelling and well-acted stories of the year, raising awareness and emotions alike.
What Happened in Mason Radcliffe’s Final Scene
For those who missed it, Mason’s character was trying to turn his life around after time in jail for knife possession.
Unfortunately, he was drawn back into danger when his brothers came after him.
A tense moment unfolded when Mason’s friend tried to defend him with a knife, but it ended tragically when Mason was stabbed instead.
The heartbreaking scene showed Abi Webster desperately trying to save him as he lay bleeding, aware he might not survive.
Despite the paramedics’ arrival, Mason’s life couldn’t be saved, leaving a lasting impact on Weatherfield’s community and viewers alike.
The Awards Night Glitch and Viewer Frustrations
Aside from the emotional highs and lows of the nominations, the ceremony itself hit a rocky start.
The pre-recorded broadcast, which took place earlier at London’s Hackney Empire and was hosted by Jane McDonald, was delayed by seven minutes due to technical issues.
Fans were quick to take to social media, frustrated that a prerecorded show would suffer such a glitch.
Some even joked that ITV might be trying to sabotage the broadcast since their own soaps, including Coronation Street and Emmerdale, didn’t perform well compared to rivals.
EastEnders Dominates the Night with Eight Wins
It was a big night for EastEnders, which scooped an impressive eight awards — more than double any other soap.
Highlights included winning Best British Soap and major acting awards like Best Dramatic Performance for Steve McFadden’s portrayal of Phil Mitchell.
Special moments included Anita Watts receiving recognition for reprising her iconic role as Angie Watts, a cameo that moved fans to tears during EastEnders’ 40th anniversary.
The show also won awards for Best On-Screen Partnership, Best Comedic Performance, and Best Villain among others.
Other Notable Winners and Moments
Hollyoaks took home three awards, including Best Newcomer for Isabelle Smith and Best Storyline for their challenging sibling sexual abuse arc.
Emmerdale’s Amelia Flanagan won Best Young Performer, impressing everyone with her emotional portrayal of April Windsor.
Meanwhile, Coronation Street’s sole award went to David Neilson for Outstanding Achievement, honouring his 30 years as Roy Cropper.
Though it was a quiet night for Corrie, the heartfelt performances and gripping stories clearly left a mark on fans.
Hosting and Behind-the-Scenes Highlights
Jane McDonald, a self-confessed soap fan, charmed the audience as host, celebrating the hard work and talent of actors and production teams.
ITV’s Entertainment Commissioner also praised the event for shining a light on the year’s best soap dramas.
The ceremony’s technical hiccup reminded everyone how unpredictable live TV can be, even when the show is pre-recorded — though fans hope next year’s broadcast goes off without a hitch.
Full List of Winners Reflects a Competitive Year
The night showcased an impressive range of talent and stories from across Britain’s beloved soaps.
EastEnders led the way, but strong performances from Coronation Street, Hollyoaks, and Emmerdale made it clear that British soaps continue to captivate audiences with powerful drama, heartfelt moments, and gripping social issues.