X-FACTOR judge Simon Cowell was last night crowned Britain’s best TV judge at a star-studded ceremony for the best in showbusiness.
He joined Kevin Spacey, Sir Ian McKellen, Michael Sheen and Michael McIntyre in accepting gongs at The Variety Club’s annual awards.
Frost/Nixon Oscar nominee Sheen was awarded Film Actor of the Year and McIntyre added to his clutch of other accolades with The Comedy Award.
Spacey was recognised for his work at the Old Vic theatre, where he has been artistic director since 2003, and took away the award for Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre.
It was a good night for the stage all round, as Sir Ian received The Bernard Delfont Award for Outstanding Contribution to Showbusiness from his Waiting for Godot co-star Patrick Stewart.
A host of stars including Alesha Dixon, Ben Kingsley, Joe Calzaghe and Dame Kelly Holmes watched them accept the awards.
The annual show raises funds for The Variety Club which helps sick children and young people.
