Angellica Bell receives honorary doctorate from UWE Bristol

Angellica Bell, a prominent figure on British television and radio, has been awarded an honorary degree by UWE Bristol.

The broadcaster and presenter received an Honorary Doctor of Arts degree in recognition of her outstanding contribution to broadcasting in radio and television, and her advocacy for representation and diversity within the media.

The University conferred the honour on Monday 21 July, as part of the University’s graduation ceremonies held at Bristol Beacon.

Angellica graduated from UWE Bristol in 1996, earning a BA (Hons) in Politics. She went on to forge a highly successful broadcasting career as the face of Children’s BBC (CBBC) until the end of 2007. During this time, she was twice shortlisted for the Best Presenter category at the Children’s BAFTAs. At CBBC, she became well-known for presenting live continuity links on BBC One and for hosting nostalgic children’s shows such as K Club, Short Change, 50/50, That’s Genius, and The Saturday Show. 

Successfully transitioning to mainstream television, Angellica has since co-presented and reported for The One Show on BBC One, fronted the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, hosted consumer series Ill Gotten Gains, and presented the BAFTA-nominated financial programme The Martin Lewis Money Show on ITV. 

A major highlight of her career was winning Celebrity MasterChef in 2017, which led to her first cookbook aimed at young people: Fantastic Eats and How to Cook Them!, published in 2019. 

In April 2025, Angellica appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, celebrating 25 years since her CBBC debut while participating as a housemate. 

Angellica has many more incredible achievements to her name. She spent five weeks in Arctic conditions filming 71 Degrees North for ITV; sailed around the British Isles on a Volvo 65 yacht for The One Show, raising over £1 million for Sport Relief; and with only eight weeks of preparation, completed the most demanding section of the Tour de France.

As well as being a stalwart in British broadcasting, Angellica actively contributes to public life. She has served as a school governor, a patron and ambassador for several charitable organisations, and has recently become a member of the Development Council for the National Windrush Museum, supporting the preservation and celebration of the history and culture of British Windrush settlers.

And, as an alumna of UWE Bristol, she has maintained a strong connection to the University, returning to share her expertise with students through masterclasses in journalism, offering them invaluable insights into storytelling and its power to effect meaningful change.

On receiving her honorary degree, Angellica said: “It is truly an honour and privilege to receive this Honorary Doctorate from the university. I fondly remember my student days in Bristol as a period of personal growth and exploration. Since then I've been back to the city for numerous filming assignments and each time it solidifies just how much the place means to me. To be recognised for my career and paving the way for others is humbling. Thank you.”

Lynn Barlow, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Creative and Cultural Industries Engagement, and orator at the ceremony added: “We’re proud to honour Angellica as an accomplished alumna who exemplifies the values we hold dear at UWE Bristol: inclusion, inspiration, and a commitment to societal impact.

“There is no doubt her achievements will continue to be an inspiration to the next generation of broadcasters.”

The UWE Bristol graduation ceremonies take place between Monday 21 July and Thursday 31 July. Angellica is one of a number of people being celebrated with honorary degrees in recognition of outstanding achievements in their chosen fields.