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, a prominent figure from the long-running science fiction series Doctor Who, as well as Belle and Sebastian’s Stuart Murdoch with honorary degrees later this year. The ceremony, set for June 17, will also celebrate BBC journalist Sarah Smith and her sister, Baroness Catherine Smith, who serves as the Advocate General for Scotland.
Additional honorees include musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader, whose contributions to the arts will be acknowledged. The event coincides with the university’s 575th anniversary, marking the 575 years since its foundation in 1451. Gatwa, who portrayed the Doctor for two seasons, will be awarded a Doctor of the University, as will Sarah Smith, the BBC’s North America editor.
Baroness Catherine Smith, a history graduate of the university and appointed to her role in 2024, will also receive the same distinction. Jacqueline McLaren, Glasgow’s Lord Provost, is another recipient of the Doctor of the University title. Meanwhile, Stuart Murdoch, the long-time frontman of Belle & Sebastian, will be granted a Doctor of Music.
“Commemoration Day offers us a chance to reflect on our remarkable history,” said Professor Andy Schofield, the university’s principal and vice chancellor. “Honorary degrees allow us to recognize individuals whose achievements have made a lasting and beneficial impact in their fields and beyond. Their work reflects values that continue to inspire our community. I am pleased to welcome these honorary graduates into the University of Glasgow family at this meaningful milestone and to celebrate them with our students.”
Other recipients of honorary titles include Professor Guido Tabellini, who holds the chair in political economics at Bocconi University, and Dr Stuart Campbell, an emeritus professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at King’s College London. These accolades will be presented during the university’s summer and winter graduation events, highlighting a range of achievements across disciplines.
