This week, the BBC announced that Sherlock is officially the "most watched drama series in a whole decade". And at the star-studded NTAs on Wednesday evening, Benedict Cumberbatch cemented his position as the nation's favourite sleuth when he received the viewer-voted TV Detective Award.Unfortunately, the 37-year-old wasn’t on hand to collect the inaugural trophy. But he more than made up for it in his acceptance speech via live satellite link.
Dressed smartly in a suit, Benedict began by saying that he was "over the moon" to receive the award, adding, "I can’t tell you what this means to me. You are the people who have made this the success this is. "As his speech continued, however, the camera panned down to show the actor wearing a pair of swimming shorts, much to the amusement of the audience.
Benedict received the award from 24 actor Kiefer Sutherland, who made a special appearance at the London O2 to give out the trophy.It was a magical moment in a very special night, that saw Ant and Dec not only win the Best Entertainment Presenter award for the 13th year in a row, but also receive the Landmark Award for their achievements so far.
Coronation Street took home the coveted Best Serial Drama prize, and Julie Hesmonghalgh won the Best Serial Drama Performance for her portrayal of Corrie's Hayley Cropper.
I'm A Celebrity...was named Best Entertainment Programme, while Best Talent Show went to Strictly Come Dancing.