Ncuti Gatwa, age 33, will be honored with an honorary doctorate from the University of Glasgow on June 17, 2026. This prestigious recognition coincides with the university’s 575th anniversary, highlighting Gatwa’s significant contributions to the arts.
Gatwa, who gained fame for portraying the Fifteenth incarnation of the Doctor in the iconic TV series Doctor Who, has made a remarkable impact in the entertainment industry. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Acting from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in 2013, where he was previously awarded an honorary doctorate.
His acting career took off at Dundee Rep theatre, where he honed his skills before landing major roles. Gatwa’s portrayal of the Doctor captivated audiences for two seasons, after which he decided to move on, stating, “I was tired and burnt out at the end of [season 2]. It was exhausting. But it was a magical time, magical.”
Prof Andy Schofield of the University of Glasgow remarked, “Honorary degrees give us the opportunity to recognise individuals whose achievements have had a profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society.” This statement underscores the significance of Gatwa’s contributions to both the arts and society.
As Gatwa prepares to receive this honor, he reflects on his journey, saying, “I had to wrestle with myself – I fell in love with that show. I’ll miss it, but I was ready to move on.” His transition from Doctor Who to new projects marks a pivotal moment in his career.
The honorary degrees will be awarded during summer and winter graduation ceremonies, with the first ceremony set for June 17, 2026. This event not only celebrates Gatwa’s achievements but also the rich history of the University of Glasgow.
With Gatwa’s rising star and the university’s commitment to honoring excellence, the upcoming ceremony is expected to attract significant attention. Observers are eager to see how Gatwa will continue to shape his career post-Doctor Who.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding other honorary degree recipients, but the anticipation surrounding Gatwa’s recognition is palpable.
