23 August 2023 , 12:26
518
0
Emmerdale's Paddy Kirk star Dominic Brunt has admitted he's "nervous" after landing his first-ever nomination for Serial Drama Performance at the 2023 National Television Awards in his 26-year history on the hit ITV soap.
Paddy actor Dominic, 53, who first joined the village in 1997, has been nominated for the impressive gong after portraying his character's heartbreaking mental health storyline earlier this year. Fans will recall Paddy considered taking his own life in a heartbreaking turn after weeks of struggling with isolation, grief and confusion.
The hit ITV soap worked closely with both Samaritans and Andy’s Man Club in order to tell Paddy's story as authentically as possible. Earlier this year, Paddy had been struggling with the breakdown of his marriage when he discovered his wife Chas Dingle had been cheating with the now late Al Chapman. At one part during the emotional storyline, Paddy even left the village without telling his friends or family.
Emmerdale's Paddy Kirk star Dominic Brunt has admitted he's 'nervous' after landing his first-ever National Television Awards nomination (ITV)This is Dominic's first-ever National Television Awards nomination after being on Emmerdale for 26 years. The actor said: "It’s an honour, I have never been nominated before so I’m quite nervous. But it’s amazing to be nominated and a testament to the research and the writing that went on for that specific story."
Talking about the importance of his storyline, especially with viewers, he added: "I spoke to the charity Andy’s Man Club and they said their attendance levels went up due to the storyline. So if we’ve saved someone from that suffering, that level of depression, where they felt they needed to go and get help, then that feels like it’s a massive job done really."
EastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likeness
Dominic admitted he's "nervous" about attending the NTAs ceremony but has vowed to try and enjoy it. He said: "I’m nervous but will try and just enjoy it without worrying about seeing myself on the big screen. But I’m really looking forward to it. I don’t care if I don’t win. It sounds cheesy but I absolutely mean it.
Paddy actor Dominic, 53, has been nominated after portraying his character's heartbreaking mental health storyline earlier this year (ITV)"I felt like I’d won all the awards when I got the job. I still remember I was on a mate's settee, subletting a front room in London when I got a phone call for an audition and it changed my life completely. I just want to enjoy the night. The thought that I’ve been nominated for an NTA is enough for me." Elsewhere, Emmerdale is nominated for Best Serial Drama again while Nicky star Lewis Cope has been nominated in the Rising Star category.
*If you have been affected by this story, you can call the Samaritans for free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org.