Hamish Hamilton to Receive BAFTA's Special Award

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has today announced that industry-renowned television director, Hamish Hamilton, will receive the BAFTA Special Award at the British Academy Television Craft Awards. The Award recognises Hamish's ability to showcase unique live spectacles through multi-camera based television directing, with millions watching his work on the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for both the London 2012 Olympic Games and, more recently, Beyonce's Superbowl Halftime Show performance.

Speaking about receiving the Award, Hamish said: "I am totally thrilled, rather surprised and a little emotional to be receiving this Special Award. It is great to be recognised for work that surrounds me with so many talented friends."

Andrew Newman, Chairman of BAFTA's Television Committee, said: "I'm delighted that Hamish Hamilton is receiving the Special Award this year, not only because his work is watched globally by a huge audience, but because the level of true talent and quality in what he does brings large-scale events to life on screen. 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."

Starting out life at the BBC, Hamish soon channelled his interest to directing television for various types of programmes, including quiz shows, children shows and morning breakfast shows. Since then, Hamish has Gone on to direct some of the world's greatest live events using advanced multi-camera techniques, and been fundamental to transforming theatrical experiences into televisual events on our screens. As well as his recent London 2012 Olympic Games ceremony work, he has also directed various other performances, award shows and live DVD concerts, including Madonna's and Beyoncé's Superbowl Halftime Show performances, in 2012 and 2013 respectively; the 82nd Academy Awards; the MTV Video Music Awards; and performances including Robbie Williams' 'Live at Knebworth', The Rolling Stones' 'The Biggest Band' and Spice Girls' 'In Concert'.

BAFTA also announced today that British actor Stephen Mangan will host this year's British Academy Television Craft Awards ceremony. Taking place on Sunday 28 April at The Brewery, in the City of London, the Awards honour the very best behind-the-scenes talent from television and new media from the past year.

Speaking about hosting this year's British Academy Television Craft Awards, Stephen Mangan said: "I'm absolutely delighted to be hosting BAFTA's TV Craft Awards again, especially as it's taking place at somewhere called The Brewery; my kind of evening."