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 Christmas Speech is 8/11 favourite to be the most watched show in the UK on Christmas Day.
- Call The Midwife (11/8) and Strictly Come Dancing (6/1) also in the mix.
- 2025 looks like a quieter year for festive TV with no Gavin and Stacey-style blockbuster confirmed.
King Charles Favourite to Deliver Top-Rated Show on Christmas Day
In what’s shaping up to be a quiet Christmas on UK television, bookmakers are backing King Charles’s annual Christmas message to top the ratings this year.
The 8/11 favourite in Ladbrokes' latest market, the King's Speech looks set to draw the most viewers on BBC One this December 25th, especially with no standout drama or comedy special announced for the festive schedule.
Last year saw Gavin and Stacey’s long-awaited finale break viewing records, but with no comparable programme on the 2025 slate, the betting market is tipping tradition over entertainment.
Betting odds on the Most Watched Show give the King an implied probability of 57.9% of leading the ratings.
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Most Watched Christmas Day Show Odds
| Most Watched Christmas Day Show | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| The King's Speech (BBC One) | 8/11 | 57.9% |
| Call The Midwife (BBC One) | 11/8 | 42.1% |
| Strictly Come Dancing (BBC One) | 6/1 | 14.3% |
| EastEnders (Part 2, BBC One) | 16/1 | 5.9% |
| The Great Christmas Bake-Off (Channel 4) | 25/1 | 3.8% |
| Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel | 33/1 | 2.9% |
Call The Midwife & Strictly Could Offer Late Challenge
Call The Midwife, a Christmas Day staple, is the main challenger at 11/8, often pulling in millions of viewers from its loyal fanbase.
With a prime-time slot and family-friendly storytelling it remains a solid contender.
Strictly Come Dancing (6/1) has also historically performed well, especially in years where it features celebrity specials and high-profile guest judges.
EastEnders and Bake-Off specials appear further down the list, while Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel is the outsider at 33/1.
What the expert says...
Where To Bet on Christmas TV Specials
Several UK betting sites offer markets on festive TV events, including most-watched programmes, Strictly specials, and soap storylines.
To place a bet on the most watched show this Christmas, check out our guide to the best entertainment betting sites.
New punters can also explore available free bets for added value.
18+. New UK & ROI customers only . Certain deposit methods & bet types excl . Min first £10 win or E/W bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 & get 4 x £10 free bets . Free bets valid for 7 days, stake not returned. No cashout, restrictions + T&C apply.
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