Vegas to be a father

Johnny Vegas has announced he is to be a father - as he picked up a film award for best actress.

He collected the Empire award at the Dorchester Hotel on behalf of Kirsten Dunst, stealing he show with his rambling acceptance speech.

Dustin Hoffman, who picked up a lifetime achievement award, struck up a rapport with the funnyman.

"I think Johnny Vegas is a bit of a genius," he told the audience. "It was worth being here for no other reason than seeing Tom Cruise and Johnny Vegas in the same room."

At the ceremony, Vegas revealed that his new wife Kitty was due to give birth on July 4.

"It's fantastic news and I'm so excited," he said. "We don't know yet if it's a boy or a girl and I honestly don't have a preference.

"My wife thinks I would be better with a boy because of my vast collection of Star Wars Lego.

I'll be one of those dads who he doesn't look up to until he starts drinking, and then he'll think I am fantastic."

Steve Coogan was also at the event, presenting the Independent Spirit Award to the producer of his movie 24 Hour Party People, Andrew Eaton.

Vegas this weeek announced a live date at the Glasgow Comedy Festival on March 23. Click here to book tickets

Published: 6 Feb 2003