Russell Brand misses Comedy Awards

Russell Brand was forced to miss the British Comedy Awards last night (22.01.11) to care for a sick friend.

The 'Get Him to the Greek' actor was due to pick up the Outstanding Contribution to Comedy honour at London's The O2 but stayed in New York to be with close pal Martino Sclavi, who is said to be in a critical condition after having a brain tumour removed earlier this week.

In a video acceptance speech, Russell said: "I'm really sorry I couldn't be there. One of my friends is really ill and I couldn't travel."

The 35-year-old comic - who is married to singer Katy Perry - later tweeted: "Thanks for my award, you beautiful British b*****ds. Comedy is our best defence against pain. In conjunction with medical expertise."

The programme's host, Russell's friend Jonathan Ross, was disappointed by the star's absence.

He tweeted: "So sad. Was really looking forward to seeing Russell at the comedy awards."

Elsewhere at the awards, Miranda Hart picked up three awards, taking home trophies for the People's Choice Award and Best Comedy Actress, as well as her sitcom 'Miranda' being named Best New TV Comedy.

Michael McIntyre was named Best Male TV Comic, while veteran funnywoman Jo Brand picked up the female honour.

'The Inbetweeners' - which ended after its third season last year - was named Best Sitcom.

British Comedy Awards winners list:

Best Male TV Comic:

Michael McIntyre

Best Female TV Comic:

Jo Brand

Best TV Comedy Actress:

Miranda Hart

Best TV Comedy Actor:

Peter Capaldi

Best Male Comedy Breakthrough Artist:

John Bishop

Best Female Comedy Breakthrough Artist:

Samantha Spiro

Best Comedy Entertainment Personality:

Harry Hill

Best Sitcom:

'The Inbetweeners'

Best Comedy Entertainment Programme:

'Newswipe'

Best New TV Comedy:

'Miranda'

Best Comedy Panel Show:

'Would I Lie To You?'

Best Sketch Show:

'Horrible Histories'

Best British Comedy Performance on Film:

Kayvan Novak

People's Choice Award:

Miranda Hart

Outstanding Contribution to Comedy:

Russell Brand

Writers' Guild of Great Britain Award:

Sam Bain and Jesse Armstrong