Joanna Lumley to get Bafta Fellowship

Nothing could make me prouder'

Joanna Lumley is receive Bafta’s top accolade, its fellowship, the academy has announced.

The Absolutely Fabulous actress will collect her awards at the British Academy Television Awards at the Royal Festival Hall in London on May 14.

The honour goes to someone who has made an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, television or games across their career. Fellows previously honoured for their work in television include Ab Fab creator Jennifer Saunders, along with her double-act partner Dawn French, as well as Bruce Forsyth, Michael Palin and Julie Walters.

Comedy writers Ray Galton and Alan Simpson received the fellowship at last year’s Television Awards.

Bafta chair Jane Lush said: ‘From high-kicking her way into our hearts as Purdey in The New Avengers to showcasing her enviable comedic credentials with her portrayal of Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous, Joanna Lumley is a true icon of television, and so I am truly delighted that BAFTA will be honouring her.’

And Lumley herself said: ‘Nothing could make me prouder or happier than being awarded this phenomenal honour. To be counted amongst the greatest talents and stars of our industry is an awesome gift: the Bafta Fellowship is the grandest and most unexpected prize I have ever had the joy of receiving.’

And that from someone who received an OBE in 1995.

Lumley Ab Fab Lumley previously won Bafta awards for best comedy performance in 1995 and best light entertainment performance in 1993, both for Absolutely Fabulous.