Dame Mary Berry is set to receive the highest honour at the 2026 BAFTA Television Awards, as she is awarded the BAFTA Fellowship. This prestigious accolade represents the Academy's most esteemed recognition, celebrating an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, games, or television.
Ceremony Details
The award will be presented to her during the ceremony on May 10 at the Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall in London. Mary, aged 90, is best known for her role on The Great British Bake Off, having launched her career in the 1970s and remaining a beloved figure ever since.
Mary's Reaction
Dame Mary Berry DBE expressed her astonishment and gratitude, stating: 'I couldn't believe it was true, what a huge honour to be presented with the BAFTA Fellowship. For over 50 years, I have enjoyed every moment of teaching my passion on television and I thank all the generous professionals along the way who have given me guidance and support - and I am still learning. This amazing BAFTA Fellowship is the icing on cake!'
BAFTA's Tribute
Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA, paid tribute to Mary's enduring influence: 'Dame Mary Berry is a singular talent whose warmth, craft and generosity have helped shape the very best of British television. Mary Berry for more than 60 years has informed, inspired and entertained audiences, setting a new benchmark for factual entertainment, proving that expertise and empathy can draw huge audiences in primetime. The BAFTA Fellowship is our highest honour, and we're proud to celebrate Mary's extraordinary legacy at this year's BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises.'
The Great British Bake Off Legacy
After debuting on the BBC, Bake Off moved to Channel 4 in 2017 and has continued to attract record-breaking audiences. The eleventh series in 2020 drew the largest audience for a Channel 4 series in 35 years. At the heart of the show have been its judges, with the original duo of Mary and Paul Hollywood winning the nation's affection. When Mary stepped down in 2016, she was succeeded by Prue Leith, who remains a key figure alongside Paul.
Bake Off has spawned numerous spin-offs, including Celebrity Bake Off for charity, Junior Bake Off, Bake Off: The Professionals, and the after-show An Extra Slice. It has also inspired international versions and BBC favourites such as The Great British Sewing Bee and The Great Pottery Throw Down.
Post-Bake Off Ventures
Since leaving the show, Mary has amassed millions through television programmes, book deals, and cookery products. Her loyalty to the BBC has been rewarded, as she has fronted several shows for the network, including Mary Berry's Simple Home Comforts, Mary Berry Everyday, and Mary Berry's Country House Secrets. She also served as a judge on Britain's Best Home Cook and presented the festive special Mary Berry Saves Christmas.
In addition to her television work, Mary has published numerous cookbooks and a gardening book, launched a range of cakes, and created an app called In Mary We Trust.
