BBC’s Casualty beats Game of Thrones at the National Television Awards
By Dan Selcke
Long-running BBC medical drama Casualty scooped a shock victory over Game of Thrones at the British National Television Awards, held at London’s O2 Arena, on Wednesday. Though it’s technically a soap opera, Casualty beat out tough competition from Cold Feet, Happy Valley and The Night Manager to win the award for Best Drama.
Unlike most award ceremonies, the National Television Awards rely on votes from the British public to select their winners. As Casualty celebrated its 30th year on television in 2016, it’s no surprise that the show has amassed a large and loyal fanbase. It revolves around the trials and tribulations of the fictional Holby City Hospital.
Unfortunately, the show doesn’t feature any shady, disgraced maesters lurking in the dungeons.
Some viewers weren’t happy about the win.
I'm all for the underdog but Casualty beating Game of Thrones for the 'best drama' NTA?! I might enter Eurovision I may stand a chance
— Jessica Mescall (@JessicaMescall) January 26, 2017
There’s an idea for a spin-off show, Westerosvision. Who wouldn’t want to see Jon Snow burst into song or watch the Night King breakdance his way to victory?
"Casualty beats Game of Thrones to win Best Drama at the #NTAs..." pic.twitter.com/Q2T4EmamAC
— Alun Saunders 🏴🏳️🌈🇪🇺 (@alunsaunders) January 26, 2017
The British Public voting Casualty a better show than Game of Thrones is even more embarrassing than them voting for Brexit #NTAS
— Rhys Cooper (@dizzee_rhyscal) January 26, 2017
Still, not everyone was unhappy about the results.
Fans shouldn’t take the loss as too much of a slight, as Game of Thrones has been nominated for a bucketful of accolades at other award shows. Hopefully it’ll see a few more trophies as awards season rolls on.