Overview
- The one-hour special aired at 6.15pm on Saturday, 27 December 2025 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, presented by Jason Manford.
- Audience members wearing face masks were visible, leading many to conclude the programme used pandemic-era footage and to label it a repeat.
- The compilation showcased performances tied to major titles including Wicked, Les Misérables, Mary Poppins, Matilda, Phantom of the Opera, Back to the Future and tributes such as Tina Turner.
- Organisers confirmed the National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals returns live at Manchester’s AO Arena on 26 January 2026 with Manford hosting.
- The January event is set to be televised on BBC One and iPlayer in Spring 2026, with organisers highlighting Lottery funding for more than 29,000 theatre projects totaling over £1.4 billion.