Sir Billy Connolly is to be honoured for an incredible career spanning more than 50 years with a Bafta Fellowship.
The comedian and actor, perhaps the most famous living Scot, will be given the accolade at the Virgin Media Bafta TV Awards on Sunday in London.
He said yesterday: “Fifty films and I can’t remember how many TV shows – as well as my stage comedy – added up to something that’s a joy to look back on. A lovely thing.
“I have no regrets. I had no idea the fellowship existed but I’m told it’s a big deal. It’s lovely to be recognised and to become a jolly good fellow.”
Bafta’s Fellowship is the body’s highest accolade, given to recognise “outstanding and exceptional contribution” in film, games or TV over a career.
The former Clyde shipyard welder, who turns 80 in November, joins a list of recipients that includes Sir David Attenborough, Dame Julie Walters, Sir Trevor McDonald and Dawn French.
He said: “I have a collection of shiny things that I’m very proud of but I never set out to get them or hunt them down.
“I don’t believe in aiming at it because if you don’t get it for whatever reason you’re all disappointed.
“Just do what you do well and you’ll find yourself a fellow before you know it.”
Sir Billy, who was knighted in 2017, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013 and retired from performing five years later, but has continued to record shows and appear on TV.
The Glaswegian, who lives in the US, will be unable to attend the ceremony in person.
In 2002, Sir Billy was presented with a Bafta special award and honoured with a lifetime achievement award by Bafta Scotland in 2012.
Emma Baehr, Bafta executive director of awards and content, called him “a national treasure on stage and screen, adored by fans around the world”.
Channel Four series It’s A Sin leads the Bafta TV nominations this year, with 11.
● The Virgin Media Bafta TV Awards, hosted by Richard Ayoade, will be broadcast on BBC1 from 6pm on Sunday.
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