Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa to receive honorary doctorate

Doctor Who Star Ncuti Gatwa to Receive Honorary Doctorate

Notable Honorees Announced for Glasgow University’s Ceremony

The University of Glasgow will honor Ncuti Gatwa, a prominent figure from the long-running sci-fi series *Doctor Who*, and Stuart Murdoch, lead singer of Belle & Sebastian, with honorary degrees later this year. These accolades will be presented during a ceremony on 17 June, commemorating the 575th anniversary of the university’s founding in 1451.

Alongside Gatwa, BBC journalist Sarah Smith and her younger sister, Baroness Catherine Smith—now Advocate General for Scotland—will also be recognized. The university emphasized that their selection was due to their “profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society.” Additional recipients include musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader, who will be honored at the university’s summer and winter graduation events.

Recognition of Diverse Achievements

Gatwa, who portrayed the Doctor for two seasons, will be awarded the title of Doctor of the University. Sarah Smith, the BBC’s North America editor, will receive the same honor. Baroness Catherine Smith, who studied history at Glasgow University before becoming Advocate General in 2024, will also be granted the distinction. Glasgow’s Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, will join them as another honorary graduate.

Stuart Murdoch, whose career with Belle & Sebastian began in the 90s, will be honored with a Doctor of Music. Other notable recipients include Professor Guido Tabellini, chair of political economics at Bocconi University, who will become a Doctor of Letters, and Dr. Stuart Campbell, an emeritus professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at King’s College London, who will be awarded a Doctor of Science.

Prof Andy Schofield, principal and vice chancellor of the university, stated that the Commemoration Day ceremony would “allow us to reflect on our remarkable history.” He added: “Honorary degrees provide a way to acknowledge individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped their fields and society. Their work reflects values that continue to inspire our community. I am pleased to welcome these honorary graduates into the Glasgow University fold at this milestone and to celebrate them alongside our new graduates.”