Filmmaker Guillermo del Toro is set to receive the highest honour from the British Film Institute, the prestigious BFI Fellowship, a recognition reserved for artists whose careers have profoundly shaped global cinema. The institution described the award as one that acknowledges his “extraordinary contribution to film and the distinctive artistry that runs through his work across animation and live action, and as a Mexican filmmaker, in both Spanish and English.” The fellowship will be formally presented at the annual BFI Chair’s Dinner in London in May 2026, hosted by BFI Chair Jay Hunt, marking a major moment in the filmmaker’s long-standing relationship with UK film culture and its audiences.
The honour arrives as a culmination of del Toro’s remarkable career — a path defined by imagination, craftsmanship, and a timeless fascination with monsters, mythology, and the emotional truths that live within the fantastical. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, del Toro began his career in special effects and makeup before moving into direction, quickly establishing a signature style rooted in gothic aesthetics and deeply human storytelling. His early films such as Cronos and The Devil’s Backbone positioned him as a bold new voice in world cinema, while the global success of Pan’s Labyrinth elevated him to the ranks of modern auteurs. Widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers of his generation, he went on to win two Academy Awards for The Shape of Water, demonstrating his ability to blend genre, emotion, and spectacle in a way that resonates with audiences and critics alike.
His impact, however, extends well beyond live-action filmmaking. Del Toro has been one of the strongest advocates for animation as a cinematic medium, not a genre, and his Oscar-winning Pinocchio became a landmark in stop-motion filmmaking. He has consistently championed emerging talent, mentored young storytellers across continents, and supported craftsmen in fields such as prosthetics, production design, and visual effects. His work across the industry — from nurturing new voices to archiving and preserving cinema heritage — has become as respected as his own filmography.
The BFI’s decision to honour him with a fellowship also reflects its deep connection to his artistry. Many of his films have been celebrated at British festivals and cinemas, and his love for British gothic literature, folklore, and cinematic tradition has visibly influenced works from Crimson Peak to his constant collaborations with UK-based craft teams. To mark the occasion, del Toro will participate in a public Career Conversation at BFI Southbank, a rare opportunity for audiences to hear him reflect on his journey, influences, and evolving storytelling philosophy. His films will be showcased through a curated retrospective across BFI Southbank, BFI IMAX, and on BFI Player, bringing a comprehensive look at his body of work to a wider audience.
In addition to being honoured, del Toro will curate his own film season at a later date, selecting titles that shaped his worldview and creative instincts. He will also lead a series of Masterclasses for aspiring filmmakers from the BFI Film Academy, offering guidance to the next generation and reinforcing his commitment to mentorship and education. His participation ensures that the fellowship is not only a celebration of his past achievements but also a bridge between his experience and the future voices of cinema.
