Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa to receive honorary doctorate

Doctor Who Star Ncuti Gatwa to Be Honored with Honorary Doctorate

The University of Glasgow will present honorary degrees to several notable figures later this year, including Ncuti Gatwa, the actor who portrayed the Doctor in the long-running sci-fi series. Stuart Murdoch, lead singer of Belle and Sebastian, will also receive an honorary title. These recognitions, to be awarded during a June ceremony, will honor individuals for their significant contributions to their fields and society.

Alongside Gatwa and Murdoch, BBC journalist Sarah Smith and her younger sister, Baroness Catherine Smith—Scotland’s Advocate General—will be recipients. The university emphasized that their selection was based on their “profound and positive impact within their professions and broader society.” Additional honorees include musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader, with the first awards taking place at a special Commemoration Day event on 17 June.

The ceremony will commemorate the 575th anniversary of the university’s founding in 1451. Gatwa, who completed two seasons in the role, will earn a Doctor of the University degree. Sarah Smith, the BBC’s North America editor, will similarly be granted the same honor. Baroness Catherine Smith, a history graduate from Glasgow, and Glasgow’s Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, will also receive honorary doctorates. Stuart Murdoch will be conferred a Doctor of Music.

“Honorary degrees give us the opportunity to recognize individuals whose achievements have had a profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society. Their work embodies values that continue to inspire our community,” said Professor Andy Schofield, the university’s principal and vice chancellor. “I am delighted to welcome our honorary graduates into the University of Glasgow community at such a significant milestone, and to celebrate them alongside our graduating students.”