Honouring his 'remarkable contribution' to TV and film

Sir Billy Connolly is to be honoured with the prestigious Bafta Fellowship.

The comedian will receive the highest accolade bestowed by the film and TV academy at their annual ceremony on Sunday.

He said:  ‘I am deeply honoured. Fifty films and… I can’t remember how many TV shows - as well as my stage comedy - added up to something that’s a joy to look back on. A lovely thing. I have no regrets at all.

‘I had no idea the Fellowship existed, but I’m told it’s a big deal! It’s lovely to be recognised and to become a jolly good fellow.;

He follows in the footsteps of stars such as Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders, Sir Bruce Forsyth, Michael Palin, Sir David Attenborough and comedy writers Ray Galton and Alan Simpson in receiving the fellowships.

Bafta executive Emma Baehrsaid: ‘We’re honoured to be awarding Sir Billy Connolly with the 2022 Bafta Fellowship Award. He has made a remarkable contribution to our industry from his first appearance on Parkinson in 1975, through to becoming a national treasure on stage and screen, adored by fans around the world.’

When announcing his accolade, the academy said: ‘As a young comedian, Connolly broke all the rules. He was fearless and outspoken - willing to call out hypocrisy wherever he saw it. However, his stand-up was full of warmth, humility and silliness too.

‘Billy's pitch-perfect stand-up comedy kept coming… for over 50 years until a double diagnosis of cancer and Parkinson's Disease has brought his remarkable live performances to an end. Since then, he had continued to make TV shows, creating extraordinary drawings and writing.’

Connolly, 79, now lives in Florida and will not be at Sunday’s event  – which is hosted by Richard Ayoade – so has sent an acceptance speech by video.

The ceremony will air on BBC One from 6pm on Sunday.

Published: 3 May 2022