National Television Awards pick first all-female shortlist for drama acting award

The National Television Awards have announced the first all-female shortlist for the best drama performance category. The five nominees are Sheridan Smith, Ruth Jones, Vicky McClure, Ella Bruccoleri, and Judy Parfitt. Smith, who won previously for her role in I Fought The Law, is nominated for her portrayal of Ann Ming. Jones, known for her work in Gavin & Stacey and Netflix's Run Away, is nominated for her role in the thriller.

McClure is recognized for her performance in Trigger Point, Lana Washington. Bruccoleri's nomination comes for The Other Bennet Sister, a period drama, and Parfitt is nominated for her role as Sister Monica Joan in Call The Midwife. The nominees were chosen from a public vote, with previous stars like David Tennant, Gary Oldman, Idris Elba, James Norton, and Tom Hiddleston also in contention.

The winners will be chosen through a second round of voting by the public between now and 8 September, the day of the ceremony. Hosted by Joel Dommett, the event will take place at London's O2 Arena and be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX at 20:00 BST.