Louis Theroux to Receive Prestigious NFTS Fellowship

Renowned documentarian and broadcaster Louis Theroux is set to be honored with a prestigious fellowship from the National Film and Television School (NFTS) next month. This recognition comes after a career spanning over three decades, during which Theroux has become synonymous with fearless storytelling and intimate, often unconventional, interviews. Despite his global fame, Theroux admits that he initially felt like an "imposter" when he first stepped into the industry, unsure if he belonged in the front-of-screen role that would eventually define his career.

From Oxford to the Frontlines of Journalism

Theroux’s journey into the world of journalism began far from the cameras and lights of television. After graduating from Oxford University, he started his career as a print journalist in America, a far cry from the documentarian he would later become. His big break came when he joined Michael Moore’s TV Nation series, where he worked as a roving reporter exploring offbeat cultures. This role laid the foundation for his eventual collaboration with the BBC, which resulted in the groundbreaking series Louis Theroux’s Weird Weekends. The series, which delved into unconventional subcultures, showcased Theroux’s unique ability to disarm his subjects with charm and curiosity, often leading to unexpected and deeply human moments on camera. Theroux’s approach as a first-person storyteller has been a hallmark of his work, setting him apart in the world of documentary filmmaking.

A Career Defined by Unflinching Storytelling

Over the years, Theroux has established himself as a master of unflinching storytelling, tackling subjects that others might shy away from. One of his most notable series, When Louis Met…, featured interviews with a host of celebrities, including the late Jimmy Savile, a man who was later revealed to be one of the UK’s most prolific sexual predators. The encounter with Savile left a lasting impact on Theroux, who later revisited the story in a follow-up documentary 16 years after their initial meeting, interviewing some of Savile’s victims. This ability to confront difficult truths and revisit painful histories is a testament to Theroux’s commitment to journalism and his desire to understand the complexities of human nature.

In addition to his work on BBC1 and BBC2, Theroux has also ventured into feature-length documentaries, including the critically acclaimed My Scientology Movie in 2016. His work has earned him widespread acclaim, and he has become a household name, celebrated for his ability to connect with audiences and uncover powerful human stories. Beyond television, Theroux has also made a name for himself as a writer, penning several books and hosting his own podcast series.

Expanding Creative Horizons

In recent years, Theroux has continued to expand his creative horizons. In 2019, he co-founded his own production company, Mindhouse, alongside his wife Nancy Strang and filmmaker Arron Fellows. The company has produced a range of documentary films and TV series, as well as Theroux’s podcast, further cementing his status as a leading voice in factual storytelling. Beyond his professional achievements, Theroux has also been open about his personal struggles, including his recent battle with alopecia, which has resulted in the loss of his eyebrows. In typical Theroux fashion, he has documented his journey with hair loss on social media, using the platform to seek advice and share updates with his followers.

Recognition and Legacy

Theroux’s upcoming fellowship from the NFTS is a fitting recognition of his immense contribution to the world of factual filmmaking. Sophie Turner Laing, chair of the NFTS, praised Theroux’s ability to connect with audiences and uncover powerful human stories, calling him a "true icon in the industry." Previous recipients of the honorary fellowship include luminaries such as James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli, Wallace and Gromit creator Nick Park, director Sam Mendes, and children’s author Malorie Blackman. The fellowship will be awarded to Theroux during the school’s graduation ceremony on Friday, March 7, an event that will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers.

A Lasting Impact on Emerging Talent

The NFTS has a long history of nurturing talent, with graduates going on to win 15 Oscars and 166 BAFTAs since the school opened half a century ago. This year, the work of current graduates will be showcased at the BFI Southbank from Monday, March 3, to Thursday, March 6. For Theroux, the fellowship is not just a recognition of his past achievements but also an opportunity to connect with younger generations of filmmakers. He has expressed his hope that the fellowship will allow him to share the lessons he has learned over the years while also learning from the emerging talent in the industry. In true Theroux style, he remains humble and curious, acknowledging that he is "still figuring things out" after all these years. His willingness to learn and grow, even at the height of his career, is a testament to his enduring passion for storytelling and his commitment to the craft of filmmaking.