We might have to wait until Sunday night to find out who has snagged the fan voted EE Rising Star BAFTA, as well as if Eddie Redmayne can collect another statue for his performance as Stephen Hawking, but we can now reveal who will be the recipient of the Fellowship award.
The Fellowship is the highest accolade that BAFTA bestows, given to individuals deemed of an exceptional contribution to film, television, or games. Previous recipents include Anthony Hopkins, Christopher Lee, and Helen Mirren. This years worthy winner is director Mike Leigh.
Speaking about the decision to award Leigh, the Chief Executive of BAFTA, Amanda Berry OBE said:
“Mike Leigh is one of Britain’s finest filmmakers, so I am delighted that we will honour him with the Fellowship, recognising his outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, at this Sunday’s EE British Academy Film Awards. He is a true innovator, an artist and an exceptional filmmaker, which is why last year the Film Committee voted unanimously to award him the Fellowship, the highest honour that BAFTA bestows. We look forward to celebrating his remarkable career.”
Leigh’s long-standing career has seen him gain impressive eleven BAFTA nominations, winning three as well as seven Academy Award nominations. Don’t miss what will surely be a hell of a montage and speech when Leigh collects his award during the ceremony this Sunday (8th). Stephen Fry is once more at the helm so be sure to tune into BBC One this Sunday.
You still have to vote for your EE Rising Star, the winner of which will also be crowned on Sunday. Click here for more details on the candidates and here to cast your vote.
Source: BAFTA
