'I was at the National Television Awards afterparty – I expected drama but was shocked'

It's one of the most exclusive parties in the business, but I managed to get into the National Television Awards afterparty. Shortly after the ceremony came to an end, I found myself walking backstage at the O2 Arena, going past dressing rooms and memorabilia signed by artists including One Direction and Celine Dion as I made my way to the afterparty.

I was able to rub shoulders with some of my favourite TV stars, mainly EastEnders and Casualty, but I also bumped into all sorts of "famous" people and the odd social media "influencer." I was instantly greeted by a free bar, albeit prosecco, wine and lager – not the typical afterparty I am used to.

When I asked if the bar had any spirits or shots, I was told no. It was only a few options on the bar. This shocked me, to be honest, as normally, the bar is completely open, and you only pay for the more expensive options if you're after spirits.

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There were some exciting aspects throughout, including live musicians playing in the middle of the packed-out room as various celebs moved about in the finest going-out clothes, no doubt feeling relaxed after the stress of the red carpet (in the rain, might I add) and waiting to find out if they had won an NTA.

Throughout the party, Love Islanders, EastEnders, Emmerdale, Coronation Street, Strictly Come Dancing, and Casualty stars mixed with one another—as, let's face it, most celebrities know one another—it's a very small circle to be part of. Two people who were noticeably absent, though, were Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus.

It's no secret that they were perhaps the most famous names on the guest list at the O2 Arena last night. They have definitely earned their stripes and don't need to mingle at an afterparty, but I'd have liked to have seen them both. Of course, I wanted a selfie with Billy Ray.

Now don't get me wrong, it was a great party, but I expected more. Awards shows are known for the glitz and glam, but the afterparties are synonymous with drama.

Just look at this year's BRIT Awards with Danny Jones and Maura Higgins (they both attended last night and sat just four seats apart, although they didn't publicly speak to one another).

I went to the NTAs afterparty alongside my friends and was bracing myself for drama. Who would kiss who? Would soap stars clash? Would Love Islanders clash? I was ready for it, but unfortunately, it didn't deliver half of what I was expecting.

In fact, the only drama I witnessed was my friends not being allowed back in after nipping to the toilet, which was crazy. Perhaps everybody was on their best behaviour this year and wanted to avoid any scandals. Another shocking aspect, the bar closed shortly after 12.30... Not something I expected, and let me tell you, a few soap stars were far from impressed by this after being told they could have a water...

But despite the lack of drama, I was just happy to be there, mingling with some of my favourite TV stars, including the cast of Casualty, Thomas Law, Laura Doddington and Charlie Suff from EastEnders and of course, Shayne Ward, who I've met a few times and can honestly say that he is such a genuine person.

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