Prince William Awards 'Exceptional' Donna Langley BAFTA Fellowship

Variety

by K.J. Yossman

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Prince William honored Donna Langley with BAFTA’s prestigious Fellowship Award at the film awards ceremony, highlighting her exceptional contributions to the entertainment industry. Langley, chair of NBCUniversal, was praised for her unwavering commitment to creative leadership, support for British talent, and transformative impact on the film industry. Prince William commended her “determination,” “commitment,” and “patronage of emerging voices,” emphasizing her role as an inspiration to those entering the creative sector. Langley’s dedication has been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Damehood from Queen Elizabeth II in 2020. During the ceremony, tributes from esteemed colleagues like Christopher Nolan, Steven Spielberg, and Emma Thompson showcased her collaborative spirit and influence. Spielberg described her as a “security blanket” of patience and support, while Nolan highlighted her importance to his upcoming project, Universal Pictures’ “The Odyssey.” Langley’s acceptance speech underscored the significance of nurturing talent and advocating for meaningful storytelling that fosters understanding and unity. William and Catherine’s surprise attendance at the event added to its prestige, reflecting their commitment to the arts. Their presence, kept confidential by both BAFTA and Kensington Palace, highlighted the couple’s dedication to recognizing achievements in the entertainment industry. Langley’s speech resonated with attendees, emphasizing the importance of supporting talent, embracing change, and using storytelling as a tool for societal understanding.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/22/2026