Soaps
O'Leary calls for Maggie Jones NTA prize
Published Monday, Jan 18 2010, 14:08 GMT | By Daniel Kilkelly
Rex Features
The presenter, who will front this year's ceremony, argued that Jones deserves recognition for her performances as Blanche Hunt in Coronation Street.
Jones passed away at the age of 75 last month following a period of ill health. She had made her first appearance on the Weatherfield soap in 1974.
Speaking about the NTAs in an interview with We Love Telly, O'Leary commented: "I'd like to see Maggie Jones get something. She was such a legend and so brilliant that it would be nice to do something for her."
On the battle for the 'Best Serial Drama' award, he added: "I watch both the biggies. EastEnders does drama brilliantly but Corrie is funnier, so I couldn't pick a winner from either of them."
The National Television Awards will air live on Wednesday at 7.30pm on ITV1.
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