Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa to receive honorary doctorate
Doctor Who Star Ncuti Gatwa to Receive Honorary Doctorate
The University of Glasgow will honor Ncuti Gatwa, known for his role as the Doctor in the BBC’s long-running science fiction series, along with Stuart Murdoch, the lead singer of Belle and Sebastian, with honorary degrees later this year. The ceremony, scheduled for June 17, will coincide with the institution’s 575th anniversary, marking its founding in 1451. Other notable recipients include BBC journalist Sarah Smith and her sister, Baroness Catherine Smith, who serves as the Advocate General for Scotland.
Recognizing Contributions to Society and Profession
These honors aim to acknowledge individuals whose work has left a significant mark on their fields and broader communities. The university highlighted that the recipients were chosen for their “profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society.” The event will also celebrate additional honorees such as musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader, alongside other graduates.
“Commemoration Day offers us a chance to reflect on our remarkable history. Honorary degrees enable us to recognize those whose achievements inspire our community,” said Prof Andy Schofield, the principal and vice chancellor of the University of Glasgow.
Gatwa, who portrayed the Doctor for two seasons, will be awarded a Doctor of the University. Sarah Smith, currently BBC’s North America editor, will also receive the same distinction. Baroness Catherine Smith, a graduate of the university’s history program and newly appointed Advocate General in 2024, will be honored alongside her. Glasgow’s Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, will similarly be granted a Doctor of the University.
Stuart Murdoch, whose band Belle & Sebastian has been active since the 1990s, will earn a Doctor of Music. Additional honorees include Professor Guido Tabellini, who will receive a Doctor of Letters, and Dr Stuart Campbell, an emeritus professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at King’s College London, who will be conferred a Doctor of Science.
