Dame Mary Berry to receive the highest honour at the BAFTA Television Awards 2026 as she is honoured with the Fellowship

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Dame Mary Berry will be awarded the highest honor at the 2026 BAFTA Television Awards, receiving the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship.

This award is the Academy’s most prestigious prize, given to someone who has made a remarkably significant impact on film, games, or television.

She will receive the award at a ceremony held on May 10th at the Royal Festival Hall in London’s Southbank Centre.

I’ve been a huge fan of Mary Berry for years! She’s 90 now, and it’s amazing to think she first started her career way back in the 1970s. She quickly became a beloved figure, and honestly, she’s been one of my favorites ever since – especially from The Great British Bake Off!

Dame Mary Berry expressed her disbelief and excitement at receiving the BAFTA Fellowship, calling it a huge honor.

I’ve loved teaching my favorite subject on TV for more than 50 years, and I’m grateful for all the wonderful people who’ve helped me along the way – I’m still learning new things every day! Receiving this BAFTA Fellowship is a truly special honor and the perfect culmination of it all.

Oh my goodness, when Jane Millichip, the head of BAFTA, spoke about Dame Mary Berry, she nailed it! She said Mary is completely one-of-a-kind, and honestly, that’s an understatement. It’s her kindness, skill, and how giving she is that’s made British TV so amazing! I’ve always said she’s a national treasure!

For over 60 years, Mary Berry has captivated viewers with her knowledge, warmth, and engaging style, redefining what factual entertainment can be and demonstrating that genuine expertise combined with a caring approach can attract a large audience.

The BAFTA Fellowship is the highest award we present. We’re delighted to recognize Mary’s incredible career at this year’s BAFTA Television Awards, with support from P&O Cruises.

Originally starting on the BBC, The Great British Bake Off moved to Channel 4 in 2017 and has become incredibly popular, consistently drawing large numbers of viewers. In 2020, its eleventh season achieved the highest ratings for any Channel 4 show in over three decades.

The judges have always been central to the show’s success. Mary and Paul Hollywood, the original judging pair, quickly became beloved by viewers.

After Mary left in 2016, Prue Leith joined the show and continues to be a key judge, working alongside Paul.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve watched The Great British Baking Show really blossom! It’s been amazing to see how much it’s grown beyond the original series. Now, we have so many fantastic spin-offs – everything from celebrity specials that raise money for charity, to shows featuring talented junior bakers and professional pastry chefs. And let’s not forget An Extra Slice, which gives us a fun behind-the-scenes look and extra laughs!

The show’s success has led to international adaptations and inspired popular BBC programs like The Great British Sewing Bee and The Great Pottery Throw Down.

After leaving the TV show, Mary has earned millions through various ventures, including appearances on other shows, book sales, and her line of cooking products.

Mary’s dedication to the BBC has proven rewarding, as she now hosts several popular shows like Mary Berry’s Simple Home Comforts, Mary Berry Everyday, and Mary Berry’s Country House Secrets.

Mary Berry also appeared as a judge on the show Britain’s Best Home Cook and hosted her own holiday program, Mary Berry Saves Christmas.

Since appearing on Bake Off, Mary has written several cookbooks and a gardening book. She’s also created her own line of cakes and a mobile app called In Mary We Trust.

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2026-05-01 02:36