Royal Television Society Names Six Fellows For 2026

The UK's Royal Television Society (RTS) has named six new fellows for 2026. The honours, presented on 5 November 2026 at the annual RTS Patrons' Dinner, recognise individuals who have made an outstanding and enduring contribution to UK television.

This year's recipients are Casting Director Shaheen Baig, recognised for launching careers, defining hits, and spotting Adolescence's breakthrough star Owen Cooper amongst 600 audition tapes; Actor, Writer, and Presenter Sanjeev Bhaskar, who co-created, wrote, and fronted hit comedy shows including Goodness Gracious Me; and BBC News International Editor Jeremy Bowen, whose career as a foreign correspondent spans more than four decades and over 90 countries.

Fellowships were also awarded to former BBC and S4C Chair Dame Elan Closs Stephens for leadership across UK broadcasting and her pioneering role in building the TV industry in Wales and beyond; Film and TV Director Philippa Lowthorpe, whose credits include Three Girls and The Crown; and Playwright and Screenwriter Lisa McGee, creator of the hit comedy Derry Girls and the Netflix comedy-drama How to Get to Heaven From Belfast.

Documentary Maker Stacey Dooley and Sarah Henwood, CEO of The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, also attended the dinner to collect the fellowships they were awarded in 2025.

Sophie Jones, CEO, Royal Television Society, said: "It was a pleasure to celebrate the many remarkable achievements of our new fellows last night. Whether creating treasured sitcoms, leading businesses, launching acting careers, or reporting on history as it unfolds, each one has been a true innovator in their field. As they continue to shape the future of television and inspire the next generation, we are proud to welcome them to the RTS fellowship."

Evan Shapiro, ITN's Jon Roberts, and On Air 2025 were among the winners of the recent

RTS Technology Awards 2026.