Kara-Leah Fernandes is on top of the world after winning a British Soap Award for Best Young Actor last night for her role as Bailey in EastEnders.
But Kara-Leah, nine, revealed during her heartwarming acceptance speech that she could relate to Bailey because she has a disabled brother.
Her character acted as carer to mother Dinah, who tragically took her own life on the soap.
Read more: EastEnders fans shocked as Ben reveals halfway is gay
During the star-studded ceremony hosted by Phillip Schofield, Kara-Leah accepted the award alongside co-star Roger Griffiths, who plays her father Mitch.
She told the crowd: “I want to thank God first, the EastEnders team for creating such a witty and mature character who is raising awareness for young carers.”
The young award-winner continued: “I have a disabled brother, so I can relate to Bailey a bit.”
“Thank you to my amazing EastEnders family, my agency and all of my family. And school teachers.”
Read more: EastEnders’ Max Bowden shares sweet behind-the-scenes picture of on-screen daughter
Fans soon took to Twitter to express their delight at the youngster’s win, as well as the emotional connection to her storyline.
One wrote: “Kara-Leah Fernandes is an absolute star. She brings so much to Bailey and the show! #EastEnders”
While another said: “Kara-Leah Fernandes is ADORABLE, and brilliant #BritishSoapAwards”
Finally, another viewer said: “Kara-Leah Fernandes is so cute her speech had me welling up #Britishsoapawards”
Read more: EastEnders SPOILER: Robbie returns with a secret
Last night’s ceremony took place at the Lowry Theatre in Manchester.
Other winners included Hollyoaks for Best Soap, Gregory Finnegan for Best Actor and Lucy Pargeter for Emmerdale.
Kara-Leah and Roger also won an award for Best On-screen Partnership.
Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think of this story.