James Norton recalls diabetes scare at award ceremony

James Norton has recalled a tense medical emergency that unfolded during a glamorous awards ceremony, revealing he nearly fainted after suffering a sudden drop in blood sugar levels caused by his Type 1 diabetes.

The Happy Valley actor shared the story on the Rosebud with Gyles Brandreth podcast, explaining that the incident occurred at the GQ Men of the Year Awards while Jude Law was speaking on stage. 

Norton said he had taken insulin before the event, expecting to eat a carbohydrate-rich meal, but was instead served smoked trout with no bread, causing his glucose levels to plummet.

"I started sweating profusely and knew I was about to pass out," Norton recalled. Realising what was happening, he quietly asked a waiter for orange juice, but his request quickly sparked concern among staff, who rushed to help. 

According to Daily Mail, the actor said the commotion created "pandemonium" in the room as guests feared he was experiencing a serious medical emergency.

As per Norton, staff eventually brought him orange juice, a chocolate bar and a bowl of potatoes, allowing his blood sugar to recover before the situation worsened. 

Moreover, he joked that he ended up eating the meal while seated opposite fellow actor Nicole Kidman.