Merlin's Morgan Triumphs At NTAs

We've long waxed lyrical about what a flipping fabulous actor Colin Morgan is, so it was incredibly gratifying to see him pick up a gong at last night's National Television Awards.

The actor beat the likes of Matt Smith and Benedict Cumberbatch to triumph in the Drama Performance: Male category.

Morgan thanked fans for their "fantastic support", adding: "It's been a five year journey for ourselves, so it's a huge honour to end on a high after that and get the recognition from the fans."

While he wasn't positive about the prospects of a Merlin reunion, he was enthusiastic about remaining in touch with his fellow cast members, telling reporters: "I don't think that's going to happen. But who knows - let's see what happens when the future comes. We're definitely going to stay friends. We just made loads of friends on the show - that's the important thing, I think."

Morgan's Merlin co-stars, meanwhile, took to Twitter to congratulate their buddy. Aww.
"Don't know if it was obvious by the way I kept hitting him, but was and still am, beaming with pride for NTA 'Best Actor' Colin Morgan," quipped Bradley James.

Rupert Young, who played Sir Leon, also called Morgan "a legend and a worthy winner", while Alexander Vlahos (Mordred) described his co-star as "magnificent".

"Colin Morgan deserved that so much," wrote Vlahos. "Very fortunate to call him a friend and work alongside him."

The Irish actor will appear opposite Gabriel Byrne in forthcoming BBC One detective serial Quirke later in 2013.