Animation grad celebrates success at RTS Student Television Awards 2026

BA (Hons) Animation graduate, James Doherty, was crowned a winner at the Royal Television Society’s Student Television Awards 2026, at a prestigious ceremony hosted by TV and radio presenter Remel London.

19 June 2026

Across 24 competitive categories, the awards are designed to highlight the talent, potential and enthusiasm and celebrate the best audiovisual work from students across the UK and Ireland.

James’ graduate film, Before Lights Out won the Undergraduate Craft Skills - Sound category and was nominated for Undergraduate Animation category.

The short film uses a blend of CGI and a 2D painterly style to tell the story of a dog that meets a spaceman on a lonely road, and follows them as they journey towards the moon.

'Before Lights Out' film poster

 

Rhuanedd Richards, the BBC’s Nations Director (Interim) and Chair of the RTS Student Television Awards, said: “These awards shine a light on the extraordinary imagination, craft and ambition of students across the UK – individuals who are not just learning their trade but actively shaping the future of our creative industries.

“At a time when fresh perspectives have never been more vital, these emerging storytellers remind us why this industry matters, and I look forward to championing their talent and the brilliant institutions that support them on their journey.”

Film still from 'Before Lights Out' by James Doherty

For more information, visit the RTS website.

To learn more about studying animation at UCA, visit the course page.

Follow @jfdohertyanimation