BAFTA Opens International Category to All Voters for 2026 TV Awards – Global Bulletin

GLOBAL GAMBIT

BAFTA has opened entries for its 2026 television awards, revealing a significant rule change that will see all 6,000 TV voting members determine nominations and winners in the International category for the first time. Previously, nominations in BAFTA’s international TV category were decided through a hybrid process, with chapter members shortlisting titles and a select jury determining the final nominees.

The move represents a big shift in international programming recognition, with the Academy citing “greater member engagement” and recognition of its “global membership” as driving factors.

“We believe this change will strengthen the category and ensure the very best international programs get the recognition they deserve,” BAFTA said.

The organization also adjusted craft category eligibility for co-productions, allowing one non-U.K. senior team member if 80% remain U.K.-eligible.

The BAFTA Television Craft Awards will take place April 26, 2026, followed by the main ceremony May 10, 2026. Both honor programming broadcast in the U.K. between Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2025.

Last year’s ceremony drew 2.5 million viewers on BBC One and iPlayer. “Mr. Bates vs The Post Office,” “Mr. Loverman” and “Blue Lights” led the wins. “Shōgun” won the international category.

MUMBAI MAKEOVER

Sony SAB launches “Itti Si Khushi,” the Indian adaptation of acclaimed series “Shameless,” premiering Aug. 18. Set in Mumbai, the drama follows 21-year-old Anvita, eldest of six siblings, who anchors her dysfunctional family.

Varun Badola returns to television after six years as alcoholic patriarch Suhas, alongside Sumbul Touqeer as Anvita and Rajat Verma as love interest Virat. Rajesh Mapuskar has been enlisted as a creative force.

Produced by Rose Audio Visuals, the show adapts the U.K. series developed by Company Pictures and Paul Abbott, with rights held by All3Media International. The original won BAFTA’s best drama, while the American version ran 11 seasons, earning four Emmys.