Finalists Revealed for 2026 BBC Audio Drama Awards | Full List & Highlights
The BBC has officially unveiled the finalists for the 2026 BBC Audio Drama Awards, marking another milestone year for one of the most prestigious celebrations of excellence in audio storytelling. Now entering its 15th year, the awards spotlight the very best in audio drama, comedy, performance, writing, production, and sound design from the UK and across Europe.
With renowned performers, bold adaptations, original storytelling, and innovative soundscapes making the shortlist, the 2026 edition reflects the evolving power of audio drama in an increasingly digital and on-demand media landscape.
The winners will be revealed during a live ceremony on Sunday, 1 March 2026, at the iconic BBC Radio Theatre, London.
BBC Audio Drama Awards 2026: Why These Awards Matter
The BBC Audio Drama Awards have grown into a global benchmark for quality audio storytelling. As the BBC continues to be the world’s largest commissioner of audio drama, the awards serve as both recognition and reassurance that audio remains a vital and innovative art form.
What the Awards Celebrate
Excellence in original and adapted drama
Outstanding acting performances
Innovation in sound design
Creative risk-taking in comedy and satire
Emerging talent through debut and writing awards
The 2026 finalists collectively demonstrate the breadth of voices, genres, and formats now thriving in audio—from historical reimaginings to modern political drama and socially conscious comedy.
Star Power in 2026: High-Profile Acting Nominees Take Centre Stage
This year’s acting categories feature an impressive lineup of established icons and contemporary stars, reinforcing audio drama’s ability to attract top-tier talent.
Ncuti Gatwa Shortlisted for Best Actor
Among the most talked-about nominations is Ncuti Gatwa, who earns a Best Actor nod for his portrayal of Gatsby in Gatsby in Harlem.
The drama is a bold reimagining of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
Set during the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s
Written and adapted by Roy Williams
Broadcast on BBC Radio 3
Gatwa’s performance has been praised for blending charisma, vulnerability, and cultural specificity, bringing new life to a classic narrative through sound alone.
Sir Derek Jacobi Nominated for Best Actor
Veteran actor Sir Derek Jacobi is also shortlisted for Best Actor for When Maggie Met Larry.
He portrays legendary actor Laurence Olivier
The drama imagines Olivier’s behind-the-scenes influence on Margaret Thatcher
Explores the intersection of politics, performance, and power
Broadcast on BBC Radio 4
Jacobi’s nomination underscores the enduring appeal of audio drama for performers seeking intimate, character-driven storytelling.
Lydia Leonard Earns Best Actress Nomination
The Best Actress category includes Lydia Leonard for her role as Kay Swift in Gershwin and Miss Swift.
Chronicles the life of the first woman to compose a hit Broadway musical
Explores Swift’s creative and personal relationship with George Gershwin
Broadcast on BBC Radio 3
Leonard’s performance brings attention to a historically overlooked figure, aligning with the BBC’s commitment to rediscovering and amplifying underrepresented stories.
Comedy Takes the Spotlight: Bold, Personal, and Political
Comedy remains a vital pillar of the BBC Audio Drama Awards, and the 2026 shortlist reflects the genre’s diversity and social relevance.
Best Stand-Up or Sketch Comedy Finalists
The finalists include:
Meet David Sedaris – David Sedaris A long-running fan favourite blending memoir, satire, and observational humour.
It’s a Fair Cop – Alfie Moore Comedy rooted in real-life policing experiences, blending humour with ethical reflection.
Tough Crowd – Kiri Pritchard-McLean A powerful stand-up special exploring foster care, responsibility, and modern family life.
These nominations highlight how audio comedy can be both entertaining and deeply personal, resonating with listeners beyond traditional punchlines.
BBC Audio Drama Awards 2026: Complete List of Finalists
Best Original Single Drama
The Final Touch – Roy Williams
One Hundred and Fifty Days – Oliver Emanuel
Sleaze – Joe von Malachowski & Will Close
Best Adaptation
Gatsby in Harlem – adapted by Roy Williams
Kramer versus Kramer – adapted by Sarah Wooley
Saint Joan of the Anthropocene – adapted by Linda Marshall Griffiths
Best Original Series or Serial
Aldrich Kemp and the Rose of Pamir
Life and Time
Mothercover
Best Actress
Gabrielle Creevy – Astronomers
Lydia Leonard – Gershwin and Miss Swift
Jodie McNee – Secrets and Lies: Mona Best and the Beatles
Best Actor
Ncuti Gatwa – Gatsby in Harlem
Sir Derek Jacobi – When Maggie Met Larry
Malachi Kirby – The Final Touch
Best Podcast Audio Drama
Buzz: The Man and the Moon
Discretion
Up in Smoke
Best Comedy Performance
Chris Cantrill – Icklewick FM
Jon Culshaw – Churchill’s Bust
Michael Spicer – Michael Spicer: No Room
The Marc Beeby Award for Best Debut Performance
Levi Brown – Brat Farrar
Connor Finch – Life and Time
Sofia Oxenham – The English Are Coming
Best Sitcom or Comedy Drama
Crybabies Presents… Yours, Fatally
Icklewick FM
Lyra
Best Use of Sound
The Bolt
The Girl of the Sea of Cortez
Secrets and Lies: Mona Best and the Beatles
Best European Drama
Macbeth – Sweden
Not Born For a War – Ukraine
The Pack – Austria
Special Writing Awards to Be Presented
Alongside performance and production categories, two major writing awards will be presented at the ceremony:
The Imison Award
Recognising outstanding writing from new or emerging voices in audio drama.
The Tinniswood Award
Celebrating the best original audio drama script of the year. Finalists for the 2026 Tinniswood Award will be announced in early February.
Audio Drama’s Renaissance in the Streaming Era
The 2026 finalists arrive at a time when audio storytelling is enjoying renewed cultural relevance. With podcasts, smart speakers, and on-demand platforms expanding global reach, audio drama is no longer niche—it’s mainstream.
Why Audio Drama Is Thriving
Low barrier to entry for listeners
High emotional intimacy
Creative freedom beyond visual constraints
Growing international collaboration
The BBC’s continued investment signals confidence in audio as a future-facing storytelling medium.
When and Where to Watch the Awards
Event: 2026 BBC Audio Drama Awards
Date: Sunday, 1 March 2026
Venue: BBC Radio Theatre, London
Coverage and highlights are expected to follow across BBC Radio, BBC Sounds, and digital platforms.
Final Thoughts
The announcement of the 2026 BBC Audio Drama Awards finalists not only honours individual excellence but also reflects the strength, diversity, and innovation shaping audio storytelling today. From celebrated actors to emerging voices, the shortlist captures a medium that continues to evolve—quietly, powerfully, and imaginatively.
As anticipation builds toward March, the industry will be watching closely to see which stories, performances, and creators take home the top honours.
