When is the King's Speech 2025? Here's when you can catch the Christmas message - and Channel 4's alternative with Jimmy Kimmel
It’s likely to be the most-watched television programme on Christmas Day.
On Christmas Day, King Charles III will deliver his annual festive message for the fourth time.
Having delivered his first Christmas broadcast in 2022 following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the monarch is set to once more address the nation.
The royal tradition allows the sovereign head of state to reflect on the year and national values in a 10 minute pre-recorded speech.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What time is the King’s Speech on TV?
The King’s Speech will be broadcast at 3pm on Christmas Day across BBC One, BBC Two, and BBC iPlayer, as well as on BBC Radio Four and BBC Sounds. It can also be watched on ITV One and Sky One.
For those looking to watch online, the Christmas Address has also been streamed on the Royal Family YouTube Channel and Facebook page in the past.
What will the King’s Speech address?
While the contents of the King’s Speech won’t be revealed until it airs, the Christmas address is used to reflect on the events of the year.
It is expected that King Charles III will touch on issues impacting the UK and around the world and looking ahead to 2026.
When was the first King’s Speech at Christmas?
The tradition of the monarch addressing the nation on Christmas Day began in 1932, when King George V delivered the first radio broadcast. It was a way to reach citizens directly during a period when radio was becoming a common household presence.
What is the Alternative Christmas Message?
For over 30 years Channel 4 have been broadcasting an alternative to the King’s Speech featuring a host of famous faces. Previous guest speakers have included whistleblower Edward Snowden, cartoon character Marge Simpson, Rory Bremner in character as Princess Diana, Ali G, Sharon Osbourne, Danny Dyer and Tom Daley.
Who is doing the Alternative Christmas Message this year?
In 2025 the speech will be delivered by US talk show host Jimmy Kimmel whose show was cancelled earlier this year after comments about the murder of Charlie Kirk attracted the ire of President Donald Trump earlier this year. Following support from viewers the show was saved.
A Channel 4 spokesperson said: “Donald Trump’s return to the White House and wide-ranging impact on the world has been the story of 2025 and it would be hard to think of a better person to address it than Jimmy Kimmel, who has found himself on the frontline of America’s battle over free speech.”
When can I watch the Alternative Christmas Message?
You can catch Jimmy Kimmel on Channel 4 at 5.45pm on Christmas Day.
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