Gay Hebridean baker Coinneach MacLeod lands major TV award nomination
A hit Gaelic-language cookery series fronted by gay author and social media star Coinneach MacLeod has been nominated for a top prize at the Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards 2026.
Hebridean Baker: Nordic Islands, which aired on BBC ALBA and streamed on BBC iPlayer, is shortlisted in the Best Programme category - one of the most respected honours in food broadcasting, with past winners including The Great British Bake Off.
The four-part series follows MacLeod on his television presenting debut as he travels across Nordic islands including Lofoten, the Faroe Islands, Gotland and Bornholm, exploring the deep connections between food, culture and island life. The show has been praised for its warmth, storytelling and celebration of community.
Reacting to the nomination, MacLeod said: “It’s a real honour to be nominated for the prestigious Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards. To see a Gaelic series recognised on this stage means a great deal.”
He added: “Knowing that past winners include Stanley Tucci and Tom Kerridge makes it all the more special.”
Produced by Caledonia TV, the series is a rare Gaelic-language contender at a major international awards ceremony, highlighting growing recognition for non-English programming.
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