I break betting odds news as it happens, so you’re never left behind when the market moves or a top offer lands.
- The King’s Speech (1/1) is the favourite to be the most-watched show on Christmas Day.
- The market is wide open with The 1% Club (6/4) and soaps including EastEnders and Coronation Street both at 2/1.
- Unlike last year’s Gavin & Stacey, 2025 has no runaway hit, making this one of the closest races in years.
Christmas Day TV Battle Returns With King’s Speech Narrow Favourite
The festive schedules are officially locked in and with them comes one of the most popular entertainment betting specials of the year: What will be the UK’s most-watched TV show on Christmas Day?
This year’s market looks particularly intriguing.
There is no single dominant programme like last year’s Gavin & Stacey special, which comfortably topped the ratings.
Instead, the 2025 lineup features a mix of royal tradition, hit game shows, long-running soaps and beloved Christmas specials leaving the market more competitive than usual.
According to the latest betting odds, the King’s Christmas Day Speech leads at 1/1, but several strong challengers are within striking distance.
Most Watched TV Show on Christmas Day Odds
| Most Watched TV Show on Christmas Day | Odds* | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| The King’s Speech (BBC) | 1/1 | 50.0% |
| The 1% Club | 6/4 | 40.0% |
| Coronation Street | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| EastEnders | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Call the Midwife | 3/1 | 25.0% |
| Strictly Christmas Special | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| The Great Christmas Bake-Off | 5/1 | 16.7% |
*As betting sites currently aren't taking bets on this event, odds have been compiled as theoretical probability from an entertainment perspective only and come from an industry expert
The King’s Speech: Tradition Still Carries Weight
Despite increased competition from streaming and multi-platform viewing, The Monarch’s Christmas broadcast remains a staple of UK festive viewing.
King Charles III’s speech debut in 2022 drew huge numbers and subsequent years have reinforced its broad appeal.
The lack of a major scripted Christmas special this year elevates its chances even further.
The 1% Club at 6/4: Surprise Challenger to the Crown
One of ITV’s fastest-growing quiz shows, The 1% Club, has become a breakout hit and at 6/4, it is the closest challenger to the King’s Speech.
With millions already tuning in weekly, this could be the first year a quiz show tops the Christmas ratings.
The show appeals to a broad age range and the whole of the family can get involved which makes it a strong contender.
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Soaps in the Mix: Coronation Street & EastEnders at 2/1
Both Coronation Street and EastEnders are tied at 2/1, and either could realistically emerge victorious depending on storyline strength and episode placement.
Christmas episodes often feature major plot conclusions and that could boost viewers even further.
Recent years have seen fluctuating soaps dominance, but a big twist or high-profile exit could tip the scales decisively.
What the expert says...
Where to Bet on Christmas Specials
Punters interested in Christmas markets can check out some of the biggest UK Betting Sites for odds from Snow on Christmas Day to Christmas Number One.
Further TV markets can be found at the best entertainment betting sites.
