Idris Elba to receive BAFTA Special Award
Actor/writer/producer Idris Elba will receive the BAFTA Special Award for creative contribution to television on 31 July.
The multi-hyphenate will pick up the gong in recognition of his career and his commitment to championing diversity and new talent in the industry.
The event, hosted by Richard Ayoade and sponsored by Virgin Media, is being held remotely on 31 July.
Previous recipients of the Special Award include Nicola Shindler, Clare Balding, John Motson, Henry Normal, Nick Fraser, Lenny Henry, Delia Smith and Cilla Black.
Elba founded Green Door Pictures in 2013, with an emphasis on inclusion and opportunity for undiscovered filmmaking talent.
Amanda Berry OBE, chief executive of BAFTA, said: “We're thrilled to honour Idris Elba OBE with the BAFTA Special Award at this year’s Television Awards ceremony. Idris is one of Britain’s best known actors in the UK and internationally with a long and successful career on-screen, and an accomplished director, producer and writer.
“He is also a driving force for championing diversity, ensuring talented people from all backgrounds achieve their potential. We’re delighted to recognise Idris, and his outstanding work, at this year’s ceremony.”
Elba added: “It's a great privilege to be honoured with the BAFTA Special Award. It’s been a mission of mine to provide opportunity and access to emerging talent from diverse backgrounds in this industry, which is the same opportunity I received many years ago from open minded and diversity conscious casting.
“I thank BAFTA for recognizing myself and others who are dedicated to the same cause, as these are all necessary steps towards helping to shift the awareness and understanding of the diversity gap in entertainment.”
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