Ncuti Gatwa, the talented actor known for his portrayal of the Fifteenth Doctor in Doctor Who, is set to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Glasgow on June 17, 2026. This prestigious recognition coincides with the university’s 575th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its history.
At just 33 years old, Gatwa has made a remarkable impact in the entertainment industry, having graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Acting from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in 2013. His journey began at the Dundee Rep theatre, where he honed his craft before rising to fame.
Gatwa’s role in Doctor Who has been a defining moment in his career, where he starred for two seasons before deciding to move on. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “I was tired and burnt out at the end of [season 2]. It was exhausting. But it was a magical time, magical.” His passion for the show was evident as he added, “I had to wrestle with myself – I fell in love with that show. I’ll miss it, but I was ready to move on.”
Before his role in Doctor Who, Gatwa was also recognized with an honorary doctorate from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, showcasing his influence and contributions to the arts. The upcoming honorary degrees at the University of Glasgow will be awarded during summer and winter graduation ceremonies, with Gatwa being among the first recipients.
Prof Andy Schofield, a representative from the university, stated, “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 sentiment underscores the importance of Gatwa’s contributions not just to television, but to the community as a whole.
As the date approaches, excitement builds around the ceremony, where Gatwa will join a distinguished group of individuals being honored for their achievements. The community looks forward to celebrating his accomplishments and the positive influence he continues to have.
