Chris triumphs at Baftas

Chris Langham’s long comedy career was finally recognised with a triumphant night at the Baftas yesterday.

The 56-year-old won the best comedy performance for his role as beleaguered minister Hugh Abbot in The Thick Of it.

The BBC satire was also named best sitcom, and Help – in which Langham played a deadpan psychiatrist to a parade of odd patients played by Paul Whitehouse – was named best comedy.

At the awards bash, Langham revealed that a current series of Help was in the pipeline, adding: ‘I don't know if it's funny really. It's more poignant than out-and-out laugh’

Langham, who is currently the subject of ongoing police investigation into allegations over child pornography, also thanked his wife for her support over difficult times.

Collecting his performance award, he said: ‘If it wasn't for the fact that she hates having attention drawn to her I would like to thank my wife for being the most loyal, constant and honourable friend a person could have.’

He also thanked The Thick Of It co-star Peter Capaldi and the show's creator Armando Iannucci, adding: ‘I'm deeply grateful [for the Bafta]. It really means a lot to me.’

Langham beat fellow nominees Catherine Tate, Ashley Jensen and  Capaldi for the accolade.

Published: 8 May 2006