St Andrews Honours Scottish Actor and Presenter Alan Cumming

On Thursday 3 July, the University of St Andrews awarded Scottish actor and presenter Alan Cumming with an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) in recognition of his ‘incredible service to the arts, in all its forms.’

The well-known star of stage and screen joined students from 88 countries in crossing the Younger Hall stage to obtain their degrees. The actor and presenter was joined by his mother Mary Darling, husband Grant Shaffer, and rescue dog Lala who joined in on the celebrations, donning a University branded bandana.

Cumming has recently graced TV screens as the presenter of the acclaimed The Traitors US series, and recently began his tenure as Artistic Director of the Pitlochry Festival Theatre in his native Perthshire.  

Speaking to The Saint, Cumming spoke of his jubilation at being recognised by his homeland’s top university: “It”s great, I’m very honoured to be [in St Andrews] to receive such a great accolade.” 

The actor and presenter reflected on being a part of the week-long graduation celebrations: “I’m […] excited about being [in St Andrews] when so many people, young people, are having this great moment.”

In his address to graduates, Cumming warned them to never lose their curiosity: “You must never stop learning, you must never stop being curious […] it’s so important to stay open to the possibility of life and this was only the beginning of your education […] Learning never stops, so embrace it. Embrace curiosity.”

Following the ceremony, Cumming joined the graduation procession with students before reaching St Salvator’s Quad, where he met his family and friends, followed by a photocall with University Principal Dame Sally Mapstone and other University staff members.

Cumming quipped that his Thursday afternoon in St Andrews was not so dissimilar to a ‘Saturday Night on Broadway’, which he announces every Saturday on his social media, “Similar costumes, a big ensemble, a big chorus.”

Photograph by David Buchan