Hamish Hamilton: Special Award 2013

Hamish Hamilton, the industry-renowned director who brought the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony to TV, was thrilled to win a special BAFTA.

Hamilton received his Award at the British Academy Television Craft Awards on 28 April 2013 in recognition of his talent for translating the buzz of live spectacle to TV.

Millions of people watched his skills in action during the opening and closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympic Games. More recently he also worked on Beyonce’s barn-storming Superbowl Halftime Show.

“The level of true talent and quality in what he does brings large-scale events to life on screen,” says Andrew Newman, chairman of BAFTA’s Television Committee.

“His skill as a director allows people to share in the experience and feel the excitement of being part of a huge event while watching at home.”

Hamilton started his professional life at the BBC where he discovered a flair for working on live music, events and awards using dynamic multi-camera techniques. These include the 82nd Academy Awards, the MTV Video Music Awards and The Brit Awards.

He’s also helped capture dynamic performances from stars including Madonna, Kylie Minogue, U2 and Eminem.

“I am totally thrilled, rather surprised and a little emotional, to be receiving this Special Award. It’s great to be recognised for work that surrounds me with so many talented friends.”

A BAFTA Special Award is one of the academy’s highest honours recognising an outstanding contribution to film, games or television. You can see more award winners in our Awards database.

For more inspiring stories from the world of film, games and TV explore our BAFTA Award Stories section.