Michael Palin: Fellowship Recipient in 2013

Michael Palin, presenter, writer and Monty Python star, received a prestigious BAFTA Fellowship.

Palin was recognised for his outstanding and exceptional contribution to television – including work like Monty Python’s Flying Circus and Around the World in Eighty Days.

Since the Python days he’s worked on critically acclaimed television series. Becoming a household name with a firm and lasting place in the nation’s hearts.

He’s also presented some of the most recognised travel documentaries on television.  Shows including Around the World in 80 Days, Pole to Pole, Sahara and more recently Brazil with Michael Palin.

Palin received the Fellowship at The British Academy Television Awards 2013, held at the Royal Festival Hall in London on 12 May.

Watch Palin’s acceptance speech below:

Michael Palin started out as a television writer for series like The Frost Report – but it wasn’t long before he found himself in front of the camera. He’s fondly remembered as a founding member of world-renowned comedy team Monty Python, both on TV and in their run of hit films. Michael’s intelligence, wit and masterful creativity were crucial elements to Monty Python’s success.

“It’s very, very nice that people should think that your work has a certain consistency over the years,” he says.

“You can look back on it and not be too embarrassed by it, and in fact feel you have produced something which people think is worthy of a Fellowship. That’s great.

“I’m well aware that any success I’ve had is down to teamwork. I’ve been blessed throughout my career with the inspiration and support of others. The Fellowship is for all of us.”

Awarded every year by the Academy, the BAFTA Fellowship is the highest accolade given to an individual in recognition of an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, games or TV.

Previous Fellows include Elizabeth Taylor, Stanley Kubrick, Anthony Hopkins, Laurence Olivier and Judi Dench.

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