TV
TV
Billy Connolly was overcome with emotion as he picked up the Special Recognition gong at the National Television Awards on Wednesday night (20.01.16).
The 73-year-old comedian, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease last year, was welcomed to the stage at London's O2 Arena by Dustin Hoffman, as two of his daughters watched from the audience.
Dustin had flown in from America especially for the occasion, and said he would always admire the comedian, and his close friend.
He said: "i'm delighted to be here tonight to pay tribute to a man whose work I've always admired and whose company I always enjoy. This man has been entertaining the world for 50 years, and that's no accident. Audiences return again and again and new generations of admirers come to him because he has the gift of inviting everyone unconditionally into his world and he exposes the truth. He transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. My friend is an artist in the truest sense of the world. It has been a great honour to count him as a friend."
A collection of clips of comedians, actors and musicians paying tribute to Billy was then played.
Peter Kay, who had earlier dedicated his own award to Billy, said in the VT: "There isn't a comedian in the world that hasn't been influenced by Billy Connolly. Billy you deserve this - you're a lucky gypsy!'
David Tennant added: "He has a timing and an insight and a joy about him. And those three things combine to create something very special.
"When you start laughing at one of billy's routines it can get near fatal - like you're never going to get out of the end of it.
"He has a way of channelling himself through the characters he plays which is much easier said than done - a lot of classically trained actors fail to do. There is a real humanity to them, there's a truth to them.
Sir Elton John took the time to honour Billy, saying: "His enduring quality is that he's never lost that spark and he's done other things than being a comedian. he's a great musician, he's done great documentaries.
"Billy you've been a really important part of my life and i can't thank you enough for just being Billy."
Judi Dench starred alongside Billy in 1997 movie Mrs Brown, which told the story of the romance between Queen Victoria and her manservant John Brown.
Judi said: "Whether it be a travel programme or acting a serious part in a film, he has a wonderful sensitivity. There was as we know a tremendous chemistry between Queen Victoria and John Brown - Billy made that very easy to film."
Taking to the stage to collect his award, Billy told the audience: "This is the best laxative i've ever had in my life!
"I'd like to thank Bill Tennant in Scotland who was the first man to put me on television and Michael Parkinson who was the first British man to put me on television.
"There's so many people i have to thank, to Dustin for putting me in his movie, thank you all very much from the bottom of my heart. I'd like to particularly thank British comedians, the standard of which is rising all the times, from Chic berry and Max Wall to Reeves and Mortimer. I love you all and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you very much indeed."
Billy also joked with Peter for not having given him the award he had won despite dedicating it to him, causing the comedian to climb up to the stage and present him with the gong.
Hilariously, Billy said afterwards: "Limelight grabber!"
Billy Connolly presented with Special Recognition gong at NTAs
Billy Connolly was overcome with emotion as he picked up the Special Recognition gong at the National Television Awards on Wednesday night (20.01.16).
The 73-year-old comedian, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease last year, was welcomed to the stage at London's O2 Arena by Dustin Hoffman, as two of his daughters watched from the audience.
Dustin had flown in from America especially for the occasion, and said he would always admire the comedian, and his close friend.
He said: "i'm delighted to be here tonight to pay tribute to a man whose work I've always admired and whose company I always enjoy. This man has been entertaining the world for 50 years, and that's no accident. Audiences return again and again and new generations of admirers come to him because he has the gift of inviting everyone unconditionally into his world and he exposes the truth. He transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. My friend is an artist in the truest sense of the world. It has been a great honour to count him as a friend."
A collection of clips of comedians, actors and musicians paying tribute to Billy was then played.
Peter Kay, who had earlier dedicated his own award to Billy, said in the VT: "There isn't a comedian in the world that hasn't been influenced by Billy Connolly. Billy you deserve this - you're a lucky gypsy!'
David Tennant added: "He has a timing and an insight and a joy about him. And those three things combine to create something very special.
"When you start laughing at one of billy's routines it can get near fatal - like you're never going to get out of the end of it.
"He has a way of channelling himself through the characters he plays which is much easier said than done - a lot of classically trained actors fail to do. There is a real humanity to them, there's a truth to them.
Sir Elton John took the time to honour Billy, saying: "His enduring quality is that he's never lost that spark and he's done other things than being a comedian. he's a great musician, he's done great documentaries.
"Billy you've been a really important part of my life and i can't thank you enough for just being Billy."
Judi Dench starred alongside Billy in 1997 movie Mrs Brown, which told the story of the romance between Queen Victoria and her manservant John Brown.
Judi said: "Whether it be a travel programme or acting a serious part in a film, he has a wonderful sensitivity. There was as we know a tremendous chemistry between Queen Victoria and John Brown - Billy made that very easy to film."
Taking to the stage to collect his award, Billy told the audience: "This is the best laxative i've ever had in my life!
"I'd like to thank Bill Tennant in Scotland who was the first man to put me on television and Michael Parkinson who was the first British man to put me on television.
"There's so many people i have to thank, to Dustin for putting me in his movie, thank you all very much from the bottom of my heart. I'd like to particularly thank British comedians, the standard of which is rising all the times, from Chic berry and Max Wall to Reeves and Mortimer. I love you all and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you very much indeed."
Billy also joked with Peter for not having given him the award he had won despite dedicating it to him, causing the comedian to climb up to the stage and present him with the gong.
Hilariously, Billy said afterwards: "Limelight grabber!"
TV
Ant and Dec were crowned TV Presenters of the Year at the National Television Awards on Wednesday night (20.01.16).
The Geordie duo have now taken home the gong for a staggering fifteen consecutive years, but Dec said the honour doesn't get any less as the time progresses.
He said: "Thank you so much, this is amazing. People said to us on the way tonight, 'Does it get boring winning awards?' No! It doesn't! If anything our gratitude has grown over the years because you never know when you're going to get it again."
And Ant added: "It's getting a bit mental now!"
Ant and Dec, whose full names are Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, beat Graham Norton, Rylan Clark-Neal and Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins to take home the gong.
Wednesday night's ceremony opened with footage of survival expert Bear Grylls prepping Dermot O'Leary for his hosting job. Dermot then descended from the ceiling at London's O2 Arena, and welcomed the audience to the ceremony, before making reference to his former role as 'The X Factor' host by telling the crowd: "Oh yeah, I've still got this job, for now!"
Dermot then introduced Gloria Gaynor, who belted out her hit song 'I Will Survive'.
The first award of the evening was for Challenge Show, presented by Ant and Dec.
'The Great British Bake Off' was crowned the winner of the category, with Paul Hollywood, Mary Berry and last year's winner Nadiya Hussain taking to the stage to accept the prize.
Paul said: "Last year was the best year we've ever had, the bakers were amazing and Nadiya became a legend!"
The next award was for Drama, with 'Poldark' actor Aidan Turner and Eleanor Tomlinson presenting it to 'Downton Abbey'.
The final episode of the show aired on Christmas Day last year, and Laura Carmichael said she was more than thrilled with the win.
Struggling to hold back tears, Laura said: "It's been the most incredible six years so thank you for coming with us on the journey."
Writer Julian Fellowes added: "I love happy endings and this is a very happy ending, thank you!"
The Entertainment gong was presented by Lee Mack and unsurprisingly won by Ant and Dec for 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'
The duo have won 21 times over the past 14 years, and Dec told the crowd: "We have the best time doing this show. We'd like to thank all the vain old goats for doing it and the chippy oiks that voted!"
Contestants Vicky Pattison, Ferne McCann and George Shelley were all present for the awards, and George told BANG Showbiz that one of the biggest fans of the programme is his mother: "My mum was won over by everyone in the jungle. She really loves Lady C [Colin Campbell] as well."
The award for serial drama performance was presented by 'EastEnders' stars Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace, and was taken home by their co-star Danny Dyer.
Clearly slightly tipsy, Danny referenced the other nominees, and then added: "I want to thank my mum and dad for having a rollabout in 1977 and conceiving me."
Radio 1 DJ Greg James took to the stage to present the gong for comedy to 'Peter Kay's Car Share'.
Accepting his award, Peter dedicated it to his "comedy hero" Billy Connolly, saying: "I've just decided on a whim to do that and he's looking at me like I've got two heads."
Asking what he then had to do with the prize, Peter told Billy: "I'm dedicating it to him but I'm going to keep it because I've never won one of these before!"
The Impact Award was given to Aidan Turner for his role in 'Poldark', which has seen him win millions of fans worldwide.
He said: "Thanks you, I'm slightly confused. I didn't know I was nominated for this award but thank you!"
'The Great British Bake Off' winner Nadiya presented the award for Live Magazine Show, with Phillip Schofield, Holly Willoughby, Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes taking to the stage to accept the award among other members of the cast and crew.
Phillip said: "That's an amazing category to be in so we are so pleased."
Holly added: "I didn't think we'd got it. To win this again is so fantastic. We are a real family at 'This Morning' and thank you to all of you for voting - we consider you our extended family!"
The Newcomer award was presented by Rylan Clark, and won by former 'The X Factor' contestant Shayne Ward for his role on 'Coronation Street'.
Clearly overwhelmed, Shayne told the crowd: "This is an incredible;e moment for me. Who would have thought a singer from 'The X Factor' could be on an amazing show like 'Coronation Street'. I'd like to thank the whole cast and crew for really welcoming me into your family."
A musical interlude was provided by Fleur East, who looked incredible in a royal blue trouser suit and black crop top as she performed her new single.
Maisie Williams was next up to present the award for New Drama to 'Doctor Foster'. Suranne Jones had debuted her baby bump on the red carpet at the ceremony earlier in the evening, and looked stunning as she walked up to the stage to accept the prize.
Her co-star Bertie Carvel joked that he was looking for snipers in the audience after his role as a cheating husband caused him to become one of the most hated men in Britain.
Suranne added: "Thank you for voting for us. We start filming 'Doctor Foster' series two in September and we are excited to see what happens."
'Good Morning Britain's Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid presented the award for Daytime, and Piers joked that the microphones had been customised for diminutive presenters Ant and Dec's heights.
'The Chase', hosted by Bradley Walsh, took home the gong, with Bradley telling the crowd: "We are thrilled with this. Thank you very much for voting with it, we really appreciate it."
Next up was Boy George who presented the TV Presenter of the Year gong,to Ant and Dec.
'First Dates' Maitre d' Fred Sirieix was next up to present the International award to 'The Big Bang Theory', with the cast sending a thank you message as filming obligations meant they were unable to attend.
The Special Recognition award was presented by Dustin Hoffman, who is a close personal friend of Billy Connolly and flew in specially for the occasion.
Looking overwhelmed by the crowd's standing ovation for him, Billy said: "It has been a grand old rock and roll all the way!"
James Nesbitt was next up to present the gong for Drama Performance, which was won by Suranne Jones for 'Doctor Foster'.
She told the audience: "Thank you so much. I'm so thrilled. I should be at an antenatal class with my husband and we didn't go so if anyone from the class wants to email me on how to give birth and tips on labour that would be great!"
TV chef and campaigner Jamie Oliver then took to the stage to present the award for Factual Entertainment to 'Gogglebox'.
The Siddiqui family collected the prize and joked: "We just sit at home and watch TV so to be here in front of you guys is incredible!"
One of the night's biggest awards of the evening was that for Serial Drama, with Ian Lavender and Blake Harrison presenting the gong - the original Pike from 'Dad's Army' and the new one from the upcoming movie adaptation.
The prize went to 'EastEnders' with several members of the cast taking to the stage to pick up the award.
Kellie Bright said of the honour: "I'm so happy that we've won but now I've actually got to speak and I've got a horrible cold! We've had a massive year, the 30th anniversary, the live week back in February and everybody involved in the show works so, so hard."
The final award of the evening was for Best Talent Show, presented by Spandau Ballet's Martin Kemp and Tony Hadley to 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
Host Tess Daly said: "Thank you so much to every single person who took the time and the trouble to vote for us. Strictly would't be the show that it is if you weren't watching. I want to thank the wonderful Claudia [Winkleman] - she couldn't be with us tonight because she's working but we love you Claude!"
The National Television Awards 2016 winners
Challenge Show - 'The Great British Bake Off'
Drama - 'Downton Abbey'
Entertainment - 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'
Serial Drama Performance - Danny Dyer, 'EastEnders'
Comedy - 'Peter Kay's Car Share'
Impact Award - Aidan Turner, 'Poldark' '
Live Magazine Show - 'This Morning'
Newcomer - Shayne Ward, 'Coronation Street'
New Drama - 'Doctor Foster'
Daytime - 'The Chase'
TV Presenter of the Year - Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly
International - 'The Big Bang Theory'
Special Recognition - Billy Connolly
Drama Performance - Suranne Jones, 'Doctor Foster'
Factual Entertainment - 'Gogglebox'
Talent Show - 'Strictly Come Dancing'
Serial Drama - 'EastEnders'
Ant and Dec win NTA for 15th year running
Ant and Dec were crowned TV Presenters of the Year at the National Television Awards on Wednesday night (20.01.16).
The Geordie duo have now taken home the gong for a staggering fifteen consecutive years, but Dec said the honour doesn't get any less as the time progresses.
He said: "Thank you so much, this is amazing. People said to us on the way tonight, 'Does it get boring winning awards?' No! It doesn't! If anything our gratitude has grown over the years because you never know when you're going to get it again."
And Ant added: "It's getting a bit mental now!"
Ant and Dec, whose full names are Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, beat Graham Norton, Rylan Clark-Neal and Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins to take home the gong.
Wednesday night's ceremony opened with footage of survival expert Bear Grylls prepping Dermot O'Leary for his hosting job. Dermot then descended from the ceiling at London's O2 Arena, and welcomed the audience to the ceremony, before making reference to his former role as 'The X Factor' host by telling the crowd: "Oh yeah, I've still got this job, for now!"
Dermot then introduced Gloria Gaynor, who belted out her hit song 'I Will Survive'.
The first award of the evening was for Challenge Show, presented by Ant and Dec.
'The Great British Bake Off' was crowned the winner of the category, with Paul Hollywood, Mary Berry and last year's winner Nadiya Hussain taking to the stage to accept the prize.
Paul said: "Last year was the best year we've ever had, the bakers were amazing and Nadiya became a legend!"
The next award was for Drama, with 'Poldark' actor Aidan Turner and Eleanor Tomlinson presenting it to 'Downton Abbey'.
The final episode of the show aired on Christmas Day last year, and Laura Carmichael said she was more than thrilled with the win.
Struggling to hold back tears, Laura said: "It's been the most incredible six years so thank you for coming with us on the journey."
Writer Julian Fellowes added: "I love happy endings and this is a very happy ending, thank you!"
The Entertainment gong was presented by Lee Mack and unsurprisingly won by Ant and Dec for 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'
The duo have won 21 times over the past 14 years, and Dec told the crowd: "We have the best time doing this show. We'd like to thank all the vain old goats for doing it and the chippy oiks that voted!"
Contestants Vicky Pattison, Ferne McCann and George Shelley were all present for the awards, and George told BANG Showbiz that one of the biggest fans of the programme is his mother: "My mum was won over by everyone in the jungle. She really loves Lady C [Colin Campbell] as well."
The award for serial drama performance was presented by 'EastEnders' stars Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace, and was taken home by their co-star Danny Dyer.
Clearly slightly tipsy, Danny referenced the other nominees, and then added: "I want to thank my mum and dad for having a rollabout in 1977 and conceiving me."
Radio 1 DJ Greg James took to the stage to present the gong for comedy to 'Peter Kay's Car Share'.
Accepting his award, Peter dedicated it to his "comedy hero" Billy Connolly, saying: "I've just decided on a whim to do that and he's looking at me like I've got two heads."
Asking what he then had to do with the prize, Peter told Billy: "I'm dedicating it to him but I'm going to keep it because I've never won one of these before!"
The Impact Award was given to Aidan Turner for his role in 'Poldark', which has seen him win millions of fans worldwide.
He said: "Thanks you, I'm slightly confused. I didn't know I was nominated for this award but thank you!"
'The Great British Bake Off' winner Nadiya presented the award for Live Magazine Show, with Phillip Schofield, Holly Willoughby, Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes taking to the stage to accept the award among other members of the cast and crew.
Phillip said: "That's an amazing category to be in so we are so pleased."
Holly added: "I didn't think we'd got it. To win this again is so fantastic. We are a real family at 'This Morning' and thank you to all of you for voting - we consider you our extended family!"
The Newcomer award was presented by Rylan Clark, and won by former 'The X Factor' contestant Shayne Ward for his role on 'Coronation Street'.
Clearly overwhelmed, Shayne told the crowd: "This is an incredible;e moment for me. Who would have thought a singer from 'The X Factor' could be on an amazing show like 'Coronation Street'. I'd like to thank the whole cast and crew for really welcoming me into your family."
A musical interlude was provided by Fleur East, who looked incredible in a royal blue trouser suit and black crop top as she performed her new single.
Maisie Williams was next up to present the award for New Drama to 'Doctor Foster'. Suranne Jones had debuted her baby bump on the red carpet at the ceremony earlier in the evening, and looked stunning as she walked up to the stage to accept the prize.
Her co-star Bertie Carvel joked that he was looking for snipers in the audience after his role as a cheating husband caused him to become one of the most hated men in Britain.
Suranne added: "Thank you for voting for us. We start filming 'Doctor Foster' series two in September and we are excited to see what happens."
'Good Morning Britain's Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid presented the award for Daytime, and Piers joked that the microphones had been customised for diminutive presenters Ant and Dec's heights.
'The Chase', hosted by Bradley Walsh, took home the gong, with Bradley telling the crowd: "We are thrilled with this. Thank you very much for voting with it, we really appreciate it."
Next up was Boy George who presented the TV Presenter of the Year gong,to Ant and Dec.
'First Dates' Maitre d' Fred Sirieix was next up to present the International award to 'The Big Bang Theory', with the cast sending a thank you message as filming obligations meant they were unable to attend.
The Special Recognition award was presented by Dustin Hoffman, who is a close personal friend of Billy Connolly and flew in specially for the occasion.
Looking overwhelmed by the crowd's standing ovation for him, Billy said: "It has been a grand old rock and roll all the way!"
James Nesbitt was next up to present the gong for Drama Performance, which was won by Suranne Jones for 'Doctor Foster'.
She told the audience: "Thank you so much. I'm so thrilled. I should be at an antenatal class with my husband and we didn't go so if anyone from the class wants to email me on how to give birth and tips on labour that would be great!"
TV chef and campaigner Jamie Oliver then took to the stage to present the award for Factual Entertainment to 'Gogglebox'.
The Siddiqui family collected the prize and joked: "We just sit at home and watch TV so to be here in front of you guys is incredible!"
One of the night's biggest awards of the evening was that for Serial Drama, with Ian Lavender and Blake Harrison presenting the gong - the original Pike from 'Dad's Army' and the new one from the upcoming movie adaptation.
The prize went to 'EastEnders' with several members of the cast taking to the stage to pick up the award.
Kellie Bright said of the honour: "I'm so happy that we've won but now I've actually got to speak and I've got a horrible cold! We've had a massive year, the 30th anniversary, the live week back in February and everybody involved in the show works so, so hard."
The final award of the evening was for Best Talent Show, presented by Spandau Ballet's Martin Kemp and Tony Hadley to 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
Host Tess Daly said: "Thank you so much to every single person who took the time and the trouble to vote for us. Strictly would't be the show that it is if you weren't watching. I want to thank the wonderful Claudia [Winkleman] - she couldn't be with us tonight because she's working but we love you Claude!"
The National Television Awards 2016 winners
Challenge Show - 'The Great British Bake Off'
Drama - 'Downton Abbey'
Entertainment - 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'
Serial Drama Performance - Danny Dyer, 'EastEnders'
Comedy - 'Peter Kay's Car Share'
Impact Award - Aidan Turner, 'Poldark' '
Live Magazine Show - 'This Morning'
Newcomer - Shayne Ward, 'Coronation Street'
New Drama - 'Doctor Foster'
Daytime - 'The Chase'
TV Presenter of the Year - Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly
International - 'The Big Bang Theory'
Special Recognition - Billy Connolly
Drama Performance - Suranne Jones, 'Doctor Foster'
Factual Entertainment - 'Gogglebox'
Talent Show - 'Strictly Come Dancing'
Serial Drama - 'EastEnders'
TV
Suranne Jones is expecting her first child.
The 'Doctor Foster' star announced the news at the National Television Awards on Wednesday night (20.01.16), where she debuted her baby bump in a stylish black asymmetric gown.
Suranne chose not to speak to press on the red carpet at London's O2 Arena, but did tell waiting reporters while pointing at her stomach: "Yeah I'm pregnant!"
The 37-year-old actress married Laurence Akers back in 2014.
Suranne first shot to fame in 'Coronation Street' but it was last year's 'Doctor Foster' that brought her back into the spotlight.
The drama series told the story of Suranne's character Gemma as she discovered her husband Simon, played by Bertie Carvel, was cheating on her with a young woman called Kate.
The series was recently commissioned for a second series, and Suranne said that most of the original cast are returning to our screens.
She told the TV Times: "I can't say much, only that most of the original cast are returning. It's not going to be a whole new ball game, it's a continuation of Gemma and Simon's story, but it's a different stage in their life.
"It was so successful, I just wondered what the hook would be to keep people coming back to this relationship.Then I went out for dinner with Mike and the team and they told me what they had planned. I thought it sounded great, and actually like something we haven't explored in a couple before."
Filming starts in September and judging by Suranne's bump, she will have given birth by then, so her pregnancy is unlikely to be written into the new series.
Suranne Jones debuts baby bump at NTAs
Suranne Jones is expecting her first child.
The 'Doctor Foster' star announced the news at the National Television Awards on Wednesday night (20.01.16), where she debuted her baby bump in a stylish black asymmetric gown.
Suranne chose not to speak to press on the red carpet at London's O2 Arena, but did tell waiting reporters while pointing at her stomach: "Yeah I'm pregnant!"
The 37-year-old actress married Laurence Akers back in 2014.
Suranne first shot to fame in 'Coronation Street' but it was last year's 'Doctor Foster' that brought her back into the spotlight.
The drama series told the story of Suranne's character Gemma as she discovered her husband Simon, played by Bertie Carvel, was cheating on her with a young woman called Kate.
The series was recently commissioned for a second series, and Suranne said that most of the original cast are returning to our screens.
She told the TV Times: "I can't say much, only that most of the original cast are returning. It's not going to be a whole new ball game, it's a continuation of Gemma and Simon's story, but it's a different stage in their life.
"It was so successful, I just wondered what the hook would be to keep people coming back to this relationship.Then I went out for dinner with Mike and the team and they told me what they had planned. I thought it sounded great, and actually like something we haven't explored in a couple before."
Filming starts in September and judging by Suranne's bump, she will have given birth by then, so her pregnancy is unlikely to be written into the new series.
TV
Carli Norris wants to join 'EastEnders' permanently.
The 42-year-old actress has just finished her short stint as bolshie Belinda Slater on the BBC One soap but she's hoping bosses decide to bring her back for good as her spiteful alter-ego and her older sibling Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) continue to tear chunks out of each other.
She explained: "I really love filming there. And after walking around the set for the first time, I did think that it would be the most amazing job to get on a regular basis.
"So I'm putting that out there! Fingers crossed we do see her again. I'm hoping we do anyway."
And Carli, who was known for portraying deceitful agency nurse Fran Reynolds in 'Holby City', believes Belinda could be the perfect person to stir some trouble on Albert Square as she will no doubt attempt to get her teeth into married man Mick Carter (Danny Dyer).
She told the Radio Times magazine: "She'd probably get her hooks into somebody. Who knows - maybe even Mick! Somebody with a bit of power. I think that's the reason she went with Neville - he had the money to enable her to escape the Square and the bad side of the Slaters. So she'd probably go for a man with a bit of money."
Meanwhile, this isn't the first time Carli has joined the cast of 'EastEnders' as she previously starred as Alice McMahon in 1998 before making a name for herself in 'Hollyoaks' in 2012.
Carli Norris wants permanent EastEnders role
Carli Norris wants to join 'EastEnders' permanently.
The 42-year-old actress has just finished her short stint as bolshie Belinda Slater on the BBC One soap but she's hoping bosses decide to bring her back for good as her spiteful alter-ego and her older sibling Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) continue to tear chunks out of each other.
She explained: "I really love filming there. And after walking around the set for the first time, I did think that it would be the most amazing job to get on a regular basis.
"So I'm putting that out there! Fingers crossed we do see her again. I'm hoping we do anyway."
And Carli, who was known for portraying deceitful agency nurse Fran Reynolds in 'Holby City', believes Belinda could be the perfect person to stir some trouble on Albert Square as she will no doubt attempt to get her teeth into married man Mick Carter (Danny Dyer).
She told the Radio Times magazine: "She'd probably get her hooks into somebody. Who knows - maybe even Mick! Somebody with a bit of power. I think that's the reason she went with Neville - he had the money to enable her to escape the Square and the bad side of the Slaters. So she'd probably go for a man with a bit of money."
Meanwhile, this isn't the first time Carli has joined the cast of 'EastEnders' as she previously starred as Alice McMahon in 1998 before making a name for herself in 'Hollyoaks' in 2012.
TV
Reggie 'N' Bollie have signed a record deal with Syco.
The 'X Factor' runners-up, who failed to beat Louisa Johnson to the winner's crown last month, are set to release their debut album this year after signing to Simon Cowell's label.
Reggie 'N' Bollie said: "We are so happy to be joining the Syco Music family and releasing our record with them. It is, literally, a dream come true for us to now do what we love for a living. We promise to work hard and show you all what Reggie and Bollie are made of. Here's to a fun 2016."
The energetic duo, whose real names are Reggie Zippy and Bollie Babeface, bounded onto the music scene last year when they auditioned for the talent show as Menn on Poinnt.
The pair were mentored by Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and managed to win over the hearts of the nation with their infectious energy, unique vocals and impressive dance skills.
As well as working on their first studio collection, Reggie 'N' Bollie have a busy few months coming up as they will star in the 25-date nationwide 'X Factor' arena tour from February.
Reggie ‘N’ Bollie sign record deal
Reggie 'N' Bollie have signed a record deal with Syco.
The 'X Factor' runners-up, who failed to beat Louisa Johnson to the winner's crown last month, are set to release their debut album this year after signing to Simon Cowell's label.
Reggie 'N' Bollie said: "We are so happy to be joining the Syco Music family and releasing our record with them. It is, literally, a dream come true for us to now do what we love for a living. We promise to work hard and show you all what Reggie and Bollie are made of. Here's to a fun 2016."
The energetic duo, whose real names are Reggie Zippy and Bollie Babeface, bounded onto the music scene last year when they auditioned for the talent show as Menn on Poinnt.
The pair were mentored by Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and managed to win over the hearts of the nation with their infectious energy, unique vocals and impressive dance skills.
As well as working on their first studio collection, Reggie 'N' Bollie have a busy few months coming up as they will star in the 25-date nationwide 'X Factor' arena tour from February.
TV
'Cold Feet' is set to return to television screens in the spring.
The cast of the hit comedy drama, which came to a dramatic end in 2003, have reunited for the first time in 13 years to read through the script and discuss the forthcoming series.
James Nesbitt - who portrayed serial womaniser Adam Williams - said of the return: "'Cold Feet' was such a big part of my life. I can't wait to see all my old friends and find out if Adam is still as big an eejit as I still am."
The 51-year-old actor will be joined by his former castmates Robert Bathurst, Fay Ripley, John Thomson and Hermione Norris for the forthcoming series, while his on-screen wife Helen Baxendale won't be making an appearance as her character Rachel Bradley was killed in a car crash in 2003.
The eight-part comedy, which is being written by Mike Bullen and produced by Rebecca Ferguson, will take over from 'Downton Abbey's Sunday night slot on ITV after the period drama sadly ended last year following five years on screen.
Meanwhile, rumours the BAFTA-winning programme is to make a return first began to circle last year.
A source said at the time: "'Cold Feet' is coming back - the deal is very nearly done. Filming will begin early next year and the new series will be ready to go by next spring."
Cold Feet to return in the spring
'Cold Feet' is set to return to television screens in the spring.
The cast of the hit comedy drama, which came to a dramatic end in 2003, have reunited for the first time in 13 years to read through the script and discuss the forthcoming series.
James Nesbitt - who portrayed serial womaniser Adam Williams - said of the return: "'Cold Feet' was such a big part of my life. I can't wait to see all my old friends and find out if Adam is still as big an eejit as I still am."
The 51-year-old actor will be joined by his former castmates Robert Bathurst, Fay Ripley, John Thomson and Hermione Norris for the forthcoming series, while his on-screen wife Helen Baxendale won't be making an appearance as her character Rachel Bradley was killed in a car crash in 2003.
The eight-part comedy, which is being written by Mike Bullen and produced by Rebecca Ferguson, will take over from 'Downton Abbey's Sunday night slot on ITV after the period drama sadly ended last year following five years on screen.
Meanwhile, rumours the BAFTA-winning programme is to make a return first began to circle last year.
A source said at the time: "'Cold Feet' is coming back - the deal is very nearly done. Filming will begin early next year and the new series will be ready to go by next spring."
TV
Brooke Vincent has reportedly split from her boyfriend.
The 'Coronation Street' actress has called time on her four-year relationship with her footballer beau Josh McEachran after their busy work schedules put a strain on their romance.
A source explained to The Sun newspaper: "They tried to give it a good go but they've simply grown apart. He's down in London and Brooke is up in Manchester. The long-distance thing works for some people but not for them."
However, it seems the Brentford midfielder, 22, is struggling to cope with the split and has been bombarding the 23-year-old star will text messages since going separate ways.
The insider added: "Josh has been texting Brooke since the split but she's determined this is now the end and has told pals there's no going back."
However, despite Brooke's decision to turn her back on their relationship, the pair are determined to remain friends.
The source said: "There's no bad blood between them. They've been together since they were teenagers and have vowed to remain friends."
The former couple first began dating in May 2011 but they've had somewhat of a turbulent relationship over the years as they briefly split in 2014 when Josh had a loan spell with Dutch team Vitesse Arnhem, and then again last summer.
Brooke Vincent splits from boyfriend
Brooke Vincent has reportedly split from her boyfriend.
The 'Coronation Street' actress has called time on her four-year relationship with her footballer beau Josh McEachran after their busy work schedules put a strain on their romance.
A source explained to The Sun newspaper: "They tried to give it a good go but they've simply grown apart. He's down in London and Brooke is up in Manchester. The long-distance thing works for some people but not for them."
However, it seems the Brentford midfielder, 22, is struggling to cope with the split and has been bombarding the 23-year-old star will text messages since going separate ways.
The insider added: "Josh has been texting Brooke since the split but she's determined this is now the end and has told pals there's no going back."
However, despite Brooke's decision to turn her back on their relationship, the pair are determined to remain friends.
The source said: "There's no bad blood between them. They've been together since they were teenagers and have vowed to remain friends."
The former couple first began dating in May 2011 but they've had somewhat of a turbulent relationship over the years as they briefly split in 2014 when Josh had a loan spell with Dutch team Vitesse Arnhem, and then again last summer.
TV
Charlie Lawson threatens to throw commuters' phones out the window of the train when they're gossiping too much.
The 'Coronation Street' legend has admitted there's nothing that annoys him more than when people get in the "quiet carriage" and immediately whip out their devices for a chat.
Calling in to Radio 5 Live, he told show host Nicky Campbell: ''What really winds me up is the quiet coach from Macclesfield to London Euston, the quiet coach clearly says no smoking and no use of the mobile phone.
''And my big bug bear is the guys who just get on and get on their phones. I won't tolerate it - I take their phone and ask them 'Do you want me to throw it out the window?'
"I can't stand it. You know what we are like over here, we don't complain about things. If there is something wrong I will point it out. They sit there and there is a sign with a great big X through a mobile phone and they still persist."
The 56-year-old actor, who played bad boy Jim McDonald in the ITV soap for 11 years, believes the inconsiderate people only do it because they're trying to "prove a point."
He added with a huff: ''I don't know whether it's small penis syndrome or whatever, who the hell do they think they are ? What are they trying to prove?"
Charlie Lawson threatens to throw phones out train windows
Charlie Lawson threatens to throw commuters' phones out the window of the train when they're gossiping too much.
The 'Coronation Street' legend has admitted there's nothing that annoys him more than when people get in the "quiet carriage" and immediately whip out their devices for a chat.
Calling in to Radio 5 Live, he told show host Nicky Campbell: ''What really winds me up is the quiet coach from Macclesfield to London Euston, the quiet coach clearly says no smoking and no use of the mobile phone.
''And my big bug bear is the guys who just get on and get on their phones. I won't tolerate it - I take their phone and ask them 'Do you want me to throw it out the window?'
"I can't stand it. You know what we are like over here, we don't complain about things. If there is something wrong I will point it out. They sit there and there is a sign with a great big X through a mobile phone and they still persist."
The 56-year-old actor, who played bad boy Jim McDonald in the ITV soap for 11 years, believes the inconsiderate people only do it because they're trying to "prove a point."
He added with a huff: ''I don't know whether it's small penis syndrome or whatever, who the hell do they think they are ? What are they trying to prove?"