Sarah Lancashire’s Hope for Older Female Storylines
Sarah Lancashire expressed her hope that the success of “Happy Valley” would lead to more storylines featuring older female characters after the show won the returning drama award at the National Television Awards.
Happy Valley Triumphs
The BBC crime series triumphed over tough competition, including “Call The Midwife,” “Stranger Things,” and “Vera,” at the annual award ceremony held at The O2 in London.
Encouraging More Older Female Storylines
In the show’s winner’s room, the 58-year-old actress was asked if she believes her casting will encourage more storylines starring older females. She responded, “I do hope. I think things are changing, and they’ve needed to change for a long time. Evolution is slow, but we’re catching up.”
No More Series for Happy Valley
Lancashire confirmed that there will not be another series of “Happy Valley” after its success, as she believes the story is complete. She explained, “It was a story told as a trilogy, which has been a great way to tell a story arch. The danger is you carry on, and it loses its potency, but I think this way, it keeps it on top.”
Praise for the Writing
The actress also praised the “caliber of writing” by creator Sally Wainwright and the production team.
Joel Dommett’s Opening Jokes
Comedian Joel Dommett opened the show with humor, introducing some of the nominees. He also shared a playful anecdote about his wife’s pregnancy and joked that Ant and Dec were on standby to take her to the hospital if she went into labor.
Awards Highlights
- Reality TV series “Gogglebox” received the first award of the night, The Bruce Forsyth Entertainment Award, beating out competitors like “The Masked Singer” and shows hosted by Ant and Dec.
- BBC’s “The Traitors” won the award for best reality competition.
- “The Graham Norton Show” secured victory in the new TV interviews category, surpassing other contenders such as “Piers Morgan Uncensored on Talk TV,” “Louis Theroux Interviews…,” and “The Chris & Rosie Ramsey Show.”
Sir Lenny Henry on Diversity
Earlier in the evening, Sir Lenny Henry commented on the changes happening in the TV industry regarding diversity. He acknowledged that there is progress, with more people of color, individuals with disabilities, and those with tattoos taking on various roles. However, he emphasized that the fight for diversity is ongoing and not yet complete.