Ruth Jones defends Gavin & Stacey co-star James Corden over ...

Ruth Jones, a long-time friend of James Corden, defended him after he was accused of having a 'meltdown' and causing a scene in a New York restaurant last year. At the time the restaurateur called James an "abusive customer" and a "tiny cretin of a man".

James, 44, was said to have shouted "like crazy" in the restaurant. He later apologised for his behaviour. Ruth, who has known James for over 20 years, spoke up for him. She told The Sun that James is really a big softie at heart, even though he can sometimes seem tough on the outside.

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In 2019, while they were filming the BBC Christmas special for Gavin & Stacey, James told Ruth something that really surprised her. After they finished filming, he confessed that he would be "lost" without her.

Ruth revealed that James "is a very emotional guy", as she added: "We had this hug, and he was crying. He mumbled something and I went, ‘What? I’m sorry, I can’t understand what you’re saying.'"

He said again, "And he kept mumbling, and I said (loudly), 'What? ' and he said (loudly), 'I would be lost without you", reports the Express.

Earlier this year it was reported that Gavin & Stacey would be returning for a Christmas special later this year. Ruth, however, has denied the rumours - read what she had to say here.

Ruth's defence comes after James came under fire from Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh on Celebrity Big Brother. After appearing on the popular ITV reality show the former X Factor duo were scathing towards the actor. Sharon revealed that James often boasted about his designer wardrobe.

She also admitted that she felt he was trying to fit into the Hollywood lifestyle after leaving the UK. Sharon shared: "I go to him, 'I really like your shoes,' and he goes, 'Yeah, Stella McCartney.' I'm like, I didn't ask you who made them, I just said I like your shoes." You can keep up to date with the latest TV and showbiz news by signing up to the newsletter here.