The British Soap Awards after-party at London’s Hackney Town Hall ended in chaos on Saturday night after a bomb threat forced an emergency evacuation.
The star-studded celebration, hosted by Jane McDonald, Sir David Jason, and Larry Lamb, was abruptly halted just before 1 a.m. when security ordered guests to leave immediately. Actors from the UK’s biggest soap operas were left stunned and confused, gathering outside as the venue was cleared.
A source told The Mirror: “It was total panic. Security rushed around telling everyone to get out, but didn’t say why at first. Then we were told there was a bomb threat. Everyone stood outside shocked and unsure what to do.”
An ITV spokesperson confirmed the evacuation, saying, “Due to a security alert after the awards recording, the after-party venue was evacuated. All guests left safely.”
Videos circulating online showed stars like EastEnders’ Tameka Empson and Hollyoaks actor Emmett J. Scanlan among the crowds on the street, while security cordoned off the area. Frustrated guests were denied re-entry.
One attendee told reporters, “It was surreal. One minute we were celebrating, the next we were outside wondering what was happening.”
No details have yet been released about the origin or credibility of the threat. ITV and the Metropolitan Police have been approached for comment.
Earlier in the evening, EastEnders dominated the ceremony, winning eight awards including Best Soap to mark its 40th anniversary. Highlights included Scene of the Year for the live episode featuring Angie Watts’ return, and Lacey Turner’s win for Best Leading Performer. Steve McFadden also won Best Dramatic Performance, though he was absent.
In contrast, Coronation Street and Emmerdale went home without major awards, a blow amid ITV’s plans to reduce episode lengths in 2026.
What began as a glamorous night celebrating British television ended on a tense note, as the after-party venue remained closed and guests dispersed amid lingering uncertainty.
