National Television Awards hail comic's talents

Billy Connolly is to receive a special prize honouring his 50-year career at the National Television Awards.

The 73-year-old will be presented the accolade by his friend, Dustin Hoffman, at the ceremony later this month.

The news comes as Connolly, who previously topped Channel 4's poll of the greatest stand-ups, begins a 16-night run at the Hammersmith Apollo.

Armando Iannucci paid tribute to his fellow Scot, saying: 'It's unbelievable and yet no surprise that we're celebrating 50 years of Billy Connolly.

'Because he doesn't compromise, because he doesn't fit a label, he has no shelf life, he's not part of a phase. He's unique. You can't really sum him up.'

The National Television Awards will be held on January 20 and broadcast on ITV.

Published: 8 Jan 2016