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British Royals

King Charles tops the Christmas Day TV ratings

The King’s Speech was the most watched programme on Christmas Day.

King Charles topped the biggest ratings contest of the year with 7.48 million people tuning in to hear him speak.

His nearest competition was the festive edition of Strictly Come Dancing which drew 5.3 million viewers.

In third place was the Doctor Who Christmas special, the first full adventure with brand new Time Lord Ncuti Gatwa, which drew an audience of 4.7 million.

The Christmas Day broadcast regularly tops the festive viewing figures although this December is its best showing for several years.

His Majesty spoke of the importance of caring for the planet as well as the vital role of universal values.

The speech was recorded in the Centre Room at Buckingham Palace and produced by ITN.

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About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.