Comedian Rosie Jones awarded honorary doctorate
If you’ve seen Rosie Jones on your screen, you’ll already know she doesn’t do things by halves and today was no different as she was awarded Doctor of the University of Bradford in recognition of her significant contribution to LGBTQ+ and disability rights.
The ceremony took place at the University of Bradford on Wednesday July 15.
A regular on national TV, a stand-up comedian, writer, podcaster and all-round force of nature, Bridlington-born Rosie is also a frequent visitor to Bradford, a city she has come to love. She speaks fondly of its people, culture and, perhaps most enthusiastically, its food. There’s the ice rink, of course, but one experience stands above the rest.
Comedian Rosie Jones receiving her honorary doctorate at University of Bradford on Wednesday July 15. Picture credit: KM Images/University of Bradford.
“I love a good curry… I have friends in the city so I am a regular visitor and I do love a good curry. During one visit, I attempted the largest naan… and completely failed.”
It’s that mix of warmth, wit and honesty that defines Rosie, on screen and off, and it’s what made her such a compelling and deserving recipient of an honorary award from the University of Bradford.
Comedian Rosie Jones receiving her honorary doctorate at University of Bradford on Wednesday July 15. Picture credit: KM Images/University of Bradford.
For Rosie, the award isn’t about tokenism, it’s about breaking down barriers.
“What I champion and talk a lot openly about… it’s not about ‘well done, you’re disabled’ but recognising how hard it is for disabled people to buck societal norms. For me, it’s about living my life as joyfully and as authentically as possible.”
It’s a perspective that aligns powerfully with the University’s own mission, one rooted in inclusion, opportunity and the belief that talent should never be limited by background.
“I know what it’s like to be judged based on who you are, what you sound like, what your background is, so the fact the University can give opportunities to every kind of brilliant person out there means so much to me and it’s everything I fight for – we need more of that in society.”
Rosie has built a remarkable career on her own terms, moving from stand-up into television writing, acting, podcasting and even children’s books, all while challenging perceptions and opening doors for others. Her voice is distinctive, not just because of her trademark delivery and dry Northern wit but because of what she stands for.
Comedian Rosie Jones receiving her honorary doctorate at University of Bradford on Wednesday July 15. Picture credit: KM Images/University of Bradford.
Born Rosie Luisa Jones, with a Spanish heritage, she jokes that she is “98% olive oil – cut me open and I bleed olive oil,” a nod to her grandmother Enriquetta, whom she credits for her love of family, food and “sitting around a table putting the world to rights.”
Perhaps one of her proudest moments has been launching her own foundation, the Rosie Jones Foundation, launched in April 2025 with a mission to support and empower individuals living with cerebral palsy.
“It’s the most important thing I’ve done. To be able to give others someone to talk to with the same lived experience, to be able to offer them support and empower them, is an absolute game changer and a breath of fresh air.”
So, given she has achieved many of her own ambitions, what advice might she have for this year’s graduates?
“Don’t limit yourself. Of course, dream big and write those dreams down. In tandem, don’t put a time limit on those dreams – just give yourself a moment to celebrate what you have achieved. Then, in your own time, start that next chapter.”