BAFTA to Honor Author Jacqueline Wilson

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) is recognizing children’s author Dame Jacqueline Wilson with the Special Award at this year’s British Academy Children’s Awards.

The award ceremony will be held on November 26 at the Roundhouse London. Wilson has created some of the U.K.’s best-loved children’s characters, and many of her works have gone on to become BAFTA-winning and nominated screen adaptations, including The Story of Tracy Beaker, The Dumping Ground, Hetty Feather, Girls in Love, Double Act, Dustbin Baby and The Illustrated Mum.

Helen Blakeman, the chair of the BAFTA Children’s Committee, said, “Jacqueline Wilson’s impact on children’s media has touched and inspired both audience and industry alike, with popular characters such as Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather providing the inspiration behind much-celebrated, long-running series and single-event pieces. Behind-the-scenes, Jacqueline has played an integral role in this process, allowing broadcasters and creators both the freedom and support necessary to adapt her stories into award-winning and often ground-breaking television. With this year marking the 15th anniversary of the Tracy Beaker-inspired drama series, there is no better time than now to award Jacqueline as 2017’s Special Award recipient.”

Wilson remarked, “I’m so pleased and proud to be given this very special award. I’m very much looking forward to the event and being able to celebrate with all the talented people who have made this possible.”