Top names from TV opted for high-voltage glamour on Tuesday night at Britain’s National Television Awards. Carol Vorderman, who underwent a major transformation two years ago from brainy frump to TV babe, was obviously fully exploring her new role in a stunning black and white Versace gown split to the thigh.
The 41-year-old presenter looked fabulous, despite having recently spent 12 days in hospital with undisclosed medical problems. Also sparkling on the night, and obviously determined to out-face the controversy caused by her kiss-and-tell revelations in her autobiography Honest, was Ulrika Jonsson.
Despite the evening’s several stumbling blocks – she was upstaged on arrival by a female streaker and asked what she thought of love rival Nancy Dell’Olio’s Downing Street outfit – the former weather girl remained upbeat and unrepentant.
Presenting comedian Graham Norton with the evening’s most popular talk show award, Ulrika announced: “Je ne regrette rien”.
And as the pair shared a celebratory buss, Graham kept the spotlight firmly on the subject, quipping: “Now that’s something you didn’t expect to see – Ulrika kissing a nancy.”
Also taking home trophies at the event were Kacey Ainsworth for best actress, EastEnders star Kim Medcalf for her role as Samantha Butcher in the award-winning soap and Ant and Dec as best entertainment presenters.
The surprise gong of the night went to A Touch Of Frost and Only Fools And Horses actor David Jason, who landed the most popular actor prize – an honour which was expected to have gone to the late John Thaw.
In the programme category, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? took top quiz, while the best comedy award went to the comedy Cold Feet.
Among the celebrity guests also turning on the star factor were Fame Academy presenter Cat Deeley, resplendent in a slinky red satin number and ultimate Baywatch babe Pamela Anderson.
