Emmerdale star Nicola Wheeler, who plays Nicola King, shocked the audience at the TRIC Awards in London on June 24, 2026, by dropping an f-bomb during her acceptance speech for Best Soap. The actress, who has been on the show for 26 years, admitted she was 'really drunk' and delivered a sweary but hilarious tribute.
Drunken Speech Steals the Show
Taking the stage to accept the award on behalf of ITV's Emmerdale, Wheeler began her speech by thanking the TRIC Awards but quickly went off-script. 'I'm really drunk – I'm really sorry,' she confessed. 'I've been on this show for 26 years and they've never, ever asked me to say a speech – and the reason is because I'm the alcoholic on the show. I'm kidding! But I am the party girl.'
She continued, 'When I first joined Emmerdale, it was brilliant. I'd done loads of little bits of drama and I joined Emmerdale and I went, "Oh, it's a tight schedule", and then I went, "Oh, it's an even f***ing tighter budget". But that's a joke.' She then introduced Lisa Riley MBE, who plays Mandy Dingle.
Emmerdale Wins Big at TRIC Awards
Emmerdale was named Soap of the Year, and Jeff Hordley, who plays Cain Dingle, won Best Soap Actor for his portrayal of a heartbreaking cancer storyline. Wheeler's speech, though sweary, was met with laughter and applause from the shocked audience.
Upcoming Drama for Nicola King
Wheeler's character, Nicola King, is set for major storylines ahead. She will develop a surprising connection with Kev Townsend (Chris Coghill) over his long-lost son Lewis Barton (Bradley Riches). Additionally, Nicola may lose her husband Jimmy King (Nick Miles) in a tragic accident.
