Coronation Street star Mollie Gallagher has shared a personal anecdote at this year's National Television Awards.
The Nina Lucas actress, who bagged an award for Best Serial Performance, also attended the ceremony two years ago... as a seat filler.
Host Joel Dommett turned to Gallagher after the cast of Corrie received the prize for Best Serial Drama at tonight's (September 9) ceremony.
"You worked on the NTAs two years ago, didn't you?" Dommett asked her.
"Yeah! As a seat filler!" she replied.
Related: Kate Garraway gives heartfelt NTAs speech about husband's battle with COVID
Dommett then congratulated her for going from seat filler to award winner in just two years.
"Congratulations! Give it up for Mollie everybody!" he said.
Gallagher had won an award for her role as Nina on the long-running soap. Nina, who dons goth makeup and clothes, is at the centre of a hate crime storyline inspired by a real-life tragedy.
On Corrie, Nina and her boyfriend Seb got attacked by Corey Brent and a gang of other thugs for her alternative appearance, resulting in Seb's murder and Nina being hospitalised.
The storyline was inspired by Sophie Lancaster, a 20-year-old woman who was killed in 2007 because of the way she dressed.
"The storyline has been an amazing one to tell, lots of awareness has been raised and I am so grateful to be part of that," Gallagher said in her acceptance speech.
Related: NTAs 2021 winners revealed, as Line of Duty and Coronation Street win major awards
The actress also thanked Sophie Lancaster's mother Sylvia for working with her to do justice by Sophie's story.
"We worked closely with the Sophie Lancaster charity and Sylvia is the most inspiring woman and she's brilliant," she added.
Getting teary, Gallagher also thanked her family, boyfriend, the writers and directors.
"I just want to dedicate this award to anyone who feels like they don't fit the mould, or feel like they don't belong. You are amazing!" she said. "You are."
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV. The National Television Awards 2021 also aired on ITV.
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