The British Soap Awards were thrown into disarray on Saturday night after a bomb threat prompted the emergency evacuation of London’s Hackney Empire.
The glamorous event, hosted by Jane McDonald alongside Sir David Jason and Larry Lamb, was abruptly interrupted just before 1am when security personnel ordered all attendees to evacuate the venue.
“It was total panic,” a source told The Mirror. “Security rushed around and told everyone to get out immediately. At first, they didn’t say why — but soon we were told there was a bomb threat. Everyone was left standing outside, confused and shocked.”
Footage circulating on social media showed soap stars including EastEnders’ Tameka Empson and Hollyoaks actor Emmett J Scanlan gathered outside as crowds were ushered into the street.
Some guests expressed frustration as they were denied re-entry by security staff. “It was surreal,” the source added. “One minute we were celebrating, the next we were out on the pavement wondering what was going on.”
With the venue remaining sealed off for the remainder of the night, attendees eventually began to disperse.
Earlier in the evening, the red carpet welcomed a host of soap celebrities, with Patsy Palmer and Michelle Collins leading a dazzling display of glamour as the industry came together for its biggest annual celebration.
ITV had recently announced the return of the popular awards show, with McDonald resuming her role as host for the event.