The British Soap Awards have been cancelled.
Phillip Schofield
ITV bosses have decided to axe the awards ceremony for the second year running because of the coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions that remain in place.
An ITV spokesperson said: "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."
Various soap stars are said to be devastated by the news, but they also understand "why this decision has been made".
A source told the Daily Star: "The British Soap Awards is the highlight of the year for everyone in the soaps. 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. The afterparty is always a lot of fun!
"But everyone understands why this decision has been made and supports the organisers."
Staff who were poised to work on the show and Phillip Schofield, the presenter, were informed of the decision before ITV made the announcement.
However, the event organisers are determined to stage the British Soap Awards in 2022.
The spokesperson said: "We look forward to hosting the awards again, when it is safe to do so and honouring the actors and shows that are so close to viewers' hearts."
Last year, the organisers announced the decision to cancel the awards ceremony in March.
A statement said at the time: "In light of the latest government health guidelines and in line with our priority of safeguarding the wellbeing of everyone involved in our programmes, production of The British Soap Awards will not go ahead as planned.
"The awards ceremony will return in 2021. In the meantime, a brand new 60-minute programme called 'The British Soap Awards Celebrates 21 Years' will air this Spring, narrated by Phillip Schofield."
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