MG ALBA highlights digital growth and future ambition in Annual Report

 

MG ALBA has published its Annual Report for 2025/26 following a year marked by growing digital audiences, continued investment in original content and a renewed focus on ensuring Gaelic language and culture thrive in a rapidly changing media landscape.

The report reflects a year of progress for Gaelic media, with audiences increasingly engaging with content across digital platforms while audience appreciation remained close to historic highs. Across BBC ALBA, LearnGaelic, SpeakGaelic and FilmG, overall reach remained steady despite wider declines in traditional television viewing, highlighting a significant shift in how audiences are choosing to access Gaelic content.

MG ALBA Chair, John Morrison, said: “Gaelic content must follow our audiences to digital platforms. If we don’t, we risk losing them forever.

The success we’ve seen across digital content, learning platforms, live sport and award-winning productions demonstrates the appetite that exists for Gaelic media. The challenge now is ensuring we have the resources and long-term certainty needed to build on that success.”

Highlights from the year included continued international recognition for An t-Eilean, which helped showcase Gaelic drama on the European stage, and the success of Hebridean Baker: Nordic Islands, which followed Coinneach MacLeod on a Nordic adventure and proved a popular addition to BBC iPlayer. Digital-first commissions such as Somhairle Spins and Rudan Beaga Bòidheach continued to attract younger audiences, with Somhairle Spins later winning the Prix CIRCOM award for Most Original and Innovative Programme. Meanwhile, SpeakGaelic and LearnGaelic continued to perform strongly, with SpeakGaelic now attracting more than 100,000 followers on Instagram.

In sport, BBC ALBA secured the rights to broadcast matches from Italy’s Serie A as the nation’s attention turned towards the men’s World Cup. The agreement represented a significant coup for Gaelic broadcasting, with BBC ALBA becoming the only free-to-air channel in the UK showing live matches featuring Scottish stars. Their performances on the pitch also drove strong engagement across BBC ALBA’s digital and social platforms, helping attract new audiences to Gaelic sports coverage.

The brand-new Mas Fhìor, produced by Beezr Studios, also marked BBC ALBA’s first quiz show format for several years, reflecting MG ALBA’s commitment to broadening the range of content available to Gaelic audiences.

MG ALBA invested £10.5M directly into commissioned content during the year, resulting in 325 hours of MG ALBA-funded programming. The organisation also continued to attract significant co-investment from partners across the creative industries, helping to bring ambitious Gaelic projects to audiences in Scotland and beyond.

Despite these successes, the report notes that financial pressures continue to present challenges across the broadcasting sector. New content now accounts for 22% of BBC ALBA’s output, compared with 40% when the channel launched in 2008, while production inflation continues to place pressure on commissioning budgets. While increased support from the Scottish Government provided greater certainty for the year ahead, MG ALBA says sustainable, long-term funding remains essential if Gaelic media is to continue investing in new content, talent development and digital innovation.

Donald Campbell, Chief Executive of MG ALBA, said: “Audience habits are changing rapidly and Gaelic media must continue to evolve alongside them. This year has shown encouraging growth across digital platforms while maintaining strong levels of audience appreciation.

The full Annual Report is available here.

FilmG 18 winners announced at Glasgow awards ceremony

Peter Sandground

The winners of FilmG 18 were announced on Thursday night (11th June 2026) at the FilmG Awards, held at the SEC in Glasgow and hosted by BBC ALBA’s Siobhan Sutherland.

The annual Gaelic short film competition awards celebrated filmmakers across its three competitions, -12, -18 and 18+, with awards presented across categories including drama, comedy, factual, heritage, creativity, art, and the FilmG Choice Awards.

A total of 157 films were entered into FilmG this year, with 38 entries in the 18+ competition, 60 in the -18 competition and 59 in the newly introduced -12 competition.

The overall Best Film award in the 18+ competition was awarded to Ceartas by Amber Blake, the first-time entrant who also won the Factual category and the Filmmaker award.

Holly Pearson

Other 18+ winners included Slàinte! by Choirstaidh NicArtair, for Drama; A Bheil an Cù ag Èisteachd? by Charlotte Rose McNeish, for Comedy; Piuthar Sgàthain by Lucy Keegan, winner of the new Art category; Ainmean-àite Caillte Àrnasdail by Cailean Robertson, which won Heritage; and Faire agus Fuine, with Ró Ó hEadhra winning the Performance award. The 18+ FilmG Choice Award went to Nach Buidhe Dhut, the viral Gaelic hip hop music video, specifically made for FilmG by Limonead.

In the -18 competition, Ophelia by Rachel Rose Munro won Drama, while Ceathrad Bliadhna – Gun Ghearan (Cha Mhòr) by Inverness Royal Academy won Comedy. Ar Cànan ’s Ar Ceòl by Willow NicFhearghais won Factual, and Sgoil Chiùil na Gàidhealtachd by Plockton High School and Sgoil Chiùil na Gàidhealtachd won the Heritage award. Aig Muir by Uilleam MacDhòmhnaill won the Creativity award, Isbeanan Gu Leòr by Castlebay Secondary School won Performance, and the -18 FilmG Choice Award went to Cha do Shèid Gaoth Riamh by The Nicolson Institute.

In the new -12 competition, Na Traoidhtearan Ainmeil by Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig a’ Challtainn in Glasgow won Drama, Salmaidh by Sgoil nan Loch won the Heritage prize, and Mairi Mhòr nan Òran – Bana-ghaisgeach Ghàidhealach by Bun-sgoil Dhùn Bheagain won two awards, for Comedy and for the -12 FilmG Choice Award.

Murdo MacSween, FilmG Project Director, said: “The FilmG Awards are a brilliant celebration of Gaelic filmmaking and of the talent coming through FilmG at every level.

“This year’s winners show exactly why FilmG matters. We saw primary schools, secondary pupils, community voices, emerging filmmakers and more experienced creators all using Gaelic to tell stories in their own way. The standard in the 18+ competition was especially strong, and Amber Blake’s success with Ceartas is a fantastic example of the kind of bold, thoughtful filmmaking that FilmG can help bring forward.

“It was also great to see the new -12 competition work so well in its first year. It gives primary schools a clear space within FilmG, while allowing the -18 competition to focus more closely on high school-age filmmakers. Across all three competitions, there is a lot to be encouraged by.”

Margaret Cameron, Director of Content at MG ALBA, said: “FilmG continues to play an important role in supporting Gaelic voices and developing creative talent for the future.

“The films celebrated at the awards reflect the strength, imagination and range of Gaelic storytelling today. From young people making their first films to emerging filmmakers creating ambitious new work, FilmG gives people a platform to create in Gaelic and to share their stories with audiences across Scotland and beyond.

“MG ALBA is proud to support FilmG and we congratulate all of this year’s winners, nominees and entrants.”

Full list of FilmG 18 winners

-12 Competition

Drama
Na Traoidhtearan Ainmeil – Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig a’ Challtainn

Comedy
Mairi Mhòr nan Òran – Bana-ghaisgeach Ghàidhealach – Bun-sgoil Dhùn Bheagain

Heritage
Salmaidh – Sgoil nan Loch

FilmG Choice Award
Mairi Mhòr nan Òran – Bana-ghaisgeach Ghàidhealach – Bun-sgoil Dhùn Bheagain

-18 Competition

Drama
Ophelia – Rachel Rose Munro

Comedy
Ceathrad Bliadhna – Gun Ghearan (Cha Mhòr) – Acadamaidh Rìoghail Inbhir Nis

Factual
Ar Cànan ’s Ar Ceòl – Willow NicFhearghais

Heritage
Sgoil Chiùil na Gàidhealtachd – Àrd-sgoil a’ Phluic agus Sgoil Chiùil na Gàidhealtachd

Creativity
Aig Muir – Uilleam MacDhòmhnaill

Performance
Isbeanan Gu Leòr – Sgoil Bhàgh a’ Chaisteil

FilmG Choice Award
Cha do Shèid Gaoth Riamh – Àrd-sgoil MhicNeacail

18+ Competition

Drama
Slàinte! – Choirstaidh NicArtair

Comedy
A Bheil an Cù ag Èisteachd? – Charlotte Rose McNeish

Factual
Ceartas – Amber Blake

Art
Piuthar Sgàthain – Lucy Keegan

Heritage
Ainmean-àite Caillte Àrnasdail – Cailean Robasdan

Performance
Faire agus Fuine – Ró Ó hEadhra

Filmmaker
Ceartas – Amber Blake

Best Film
Ceartas – Amber Blake

FilmG Choice Award
Nach Buidhe Dhut – Limonead

All films are available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

BBC ALBA Children’s Drama wins RTS Scotland Award

Image – Peter Sandground

Billy Bùrach, the Gaelic children’s drama scooped the Children’s category award at the RTS Scotland Awards on 12th June at the Old Fruitmarket Glasgow. Produced by The 90, the film was directed by John Murdo MacAulay, produced by Ann Morrison and the script written by Will Murray.

BBC ALBA productions and talent were recognised across a wide range of categories at this year’s Royal Television Society (RTS) Scotland Awards, with nominations spanning documentary, entertainment, children’s programming, current affairs, sport, live events and craft.

Held annually, the RTS Scotland Awards celebrate excellence in television production and broadcasting across Scotland, recognising the programmes and creative talent shaping the nation’s screen industry.

This year, BBC ALBA productions received 11 nominations across the awards, more than doubling the five nominations received in 2025 and highlighting the breadth and quality of Gaelic content being produced across Scotland.

Image – Peter Sandground

Among the nominated productions was Hebridean Baker: Nordic Islands from Caledonia TV Productions, which received two nominations, recognising both presenter Coinneach MacLeod in the On-Screen Personality category and cinematographer Gavin Hopkins in the Camera (Craft) category.

Children’s programming included a nomination for Sgeul Media’s Aidan: Balach Beag Muay Thai while BBC ALBA’s Eòrpa: After the Storm was shortlisted in the Current Affairs category.

Caledonia TV Productions’ acclaimed documentary series Patagonia: Cuairt gu Crìoch na Cruinnereceived a nomination in the Documentary (Series) category, while Dùbhlain DIY | Instructions Not Included, produced by Demus Productions and Seaglass Pictures, was recognised in Entertainment.

BBC ALBA’s flagship Hogmanay programme Cèilidh na Bliadhn’ Ùire 2025 was shortlisted in the Live Event category, while editor Colin Monie received a nomination in Post Production: Editing (Craft) for his work on Black Camel Pictures’ award-winning drama series An t-Eilean.

Also recognised was Rùrachd, which received a nomination in the Original Music Score category. The nomination recognised the work of Prof. Colin Campbell and Nick Turner of Watercolour Studios for their original score for the BBC ALBA production.

Completing the shortlist was Adventure Show – Rèis ITERA from Adventure Show Productions, which received a nomination in the Sport category.

Margaret Cameron, Director of Content at MG ALBA, said: “Congratulations to all those who were nominated and to The 90 for Billy Bùrach, the winning film in the Children’s category. We were delighted to see so many nominations for MG ALBA backed productions for BBC ALBA and another nomination for Eòrpa from the BBC.  There was a great spread of genres and some amazing collaborations on the list.”

The RTS Scotland Awards took place at the Old Fruitmarket in Glasgow on Friday 12th June 2026.

You can watch the full programme on BBC ALBA Clann’s YouTube – Billy Bùrach

Innovation award win for Somhairle Spins

© Miikka Varila / Yle

MG ALBA has secured a prestigious industry accolade, with Somhairle Spins named winner of the Prix Circom for Most Original and Innovative, a category celebrating bold ideas, fresh storytelling, and imaginative approaches to European regional television and online content.

The award recognises productions that surprise the jury through originality, creative ambition, and inventive technical execution – both in front of and behind the camera. Judges praised Somhairle Spins as an inspiring and refreshing series that demonstrates how regional storytelling can evolve to engage new audiences in meaningful ways.

Somhairle Spins was commissioned by MG ALBA for BBC ALBA’s YouTube channel & BBC iPlayer. It was first released on 13th Jan 2026, and gained quick traction amongst 18-35 audience across digital platforms.  The series follows well‑known content creator Somhairle Johnston as he takes on Scotland by bike, joined by friends, family, and surprise guests. The series is full of laughs, adventure, and the joys (and challenges!) of cycling, set against striking Scottish landscapes.

Prix CIRCOM continues to be a key platform for recognising excellence and innovation in regional broadcasting and in 2026, has set a new record with 272 entries from across Europe.

Judging took place in April this year and brought together jury members from 14 countries. For the first time, the jury was supported by a group of young social media users, offering insight into how digital audiences engage with news and storytelling.

The jury highlighted the series’ bold digital‑first approach, combining dynamic self‑shot footage, fast‑paced editing, and high‑quality visual design to deliver a genuinely fresh storytelling style. The use of multiple cameras, including GoPros, and personal devices, creates an intimate and immersive experience, while active audience interaction strengthens engagement beyond the screen. The series blends humour, accessibility, and landscape-led storytelling into a highly relatable viewing experience. Leveraging Somhairle’s established popularity on social media was noted as a smart and creative casting choice, successfully attracting a younger audience to the broadcaster.

The production model behind the series was in itself innovative.  As well as leveraging Somhairle’s own experience in self-shooting for digital platforms, MG ALBA and Solus Productions established a knowledge-share collaboration, pairing existing Gaelic Director & Edit talent with a Director and Editor specialising in digital‑first content. This approach ensured the series felt native to digital audiences and authentically Gaelic, while also supporting skills development within the Gaelic production sector.

Lisa Annette, Executive Producer for MG ALBA said: “This series was commissioned as part of a wider strategy at MG ALBA to take more creative risks in order to better serve our younger audiences, and we’re proud to receive this recognition. To win in a category that celebrates innovation, originality and bold ideas reflects the exceptional talent and commitment of everyone involved in bringing Somhairle Spins to life.”

Jim Webster, Executive Producer from Solus Productions said: “Everyone at Solus is delighted that Somhairle Spins has been recognised by winning such a prestigious award.  Somhairle, Jonny and everyone in the team brought a thrilling series together filled with wit, warmth and ingenuity.  The whole process was supported brilliantly along the way by Lisa and her team at MG ALBA.”

The award was accepted by Somhairle Johnston (Presenter), Jonny Ashworth (Director) & Lisa Annette (Executive Producer for MG ALBA) at the CIRCOM regional Conference in Tampere on 21st May 2026.

The entire series is available to watch on BBC ALBA’s YouTube.

Award-winning Gaelic drama An t-Eilean returns with £1M island boost as partners visit Western Isles set

 

MG ALBA today hosted key partners, stakeholders and funders on the set of the award-winning Gaelic crime drama An t-Eilean, as filming continues across Lewis and Harris on its second series.

Visiting cast and crew on location in Breasclete, representatives from Ofcom, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (CnES) and VisitScotland saw first-hand the scale and impact of the multi-partner funded production.

The four-part drama, produced by Black Camel Pictures, is midway through a seven-week shoot in the Western Isles. The production is expected to deliver around £1 million to the local island economy, with 50 crew and 30 cast working across multiple locations.

Five step-up training opportunities – backed by the British Film Institute, Creative Scotland and MG ALBA – have been created across editing, sound, directing and digital content, supporting skills development in the Highlands and Islands and expanding the Gaelic-speaking talent pool.

The first series of An t-Eilean was broadcast in January 2025 on BBC ALBA, followed by BBC Four, attracting audiences of around two million. It went on to secure international distribution and was recognised as the best TV show in European regional television, with CIRCOM’s Grand Prix and Best Entertainment and Drama Award in 2025, marking it as the most successful Gaelic-language television production.  The new series builds on that success, with an expanded cast of returning and emerging talent.

The return of An t-Eilean reflects the strength of collaboration across the sector, with additional support from Screen Scotland, the BBC, CnES, HIE, Black Camel Pictures and All3Media International.

John Morrison, Chair of MG ALBA said: “The success of An t-Eilean demonstrates the growing reach and confidence of Gaelic-language drama, not only as a cultural asset but as a driver of economic and creative opportunity for the Highlands and Islands.

“This production is bringing significant investment into local communities, creating valuable skills opportunities and showcasing Lewis and Harris to audiences across the UK and internationally.

“The continued success of An t-Eilean reflects the strength of partnership working across the sector and underlines the importance of sustained investment in Gaelic broadcasting and screen production.”

Cllr Paul Steele, Leader of CnES, said:  “We are pleased to have been able to support this significant production with a funding contribution and through use of the Comhairle-owned Studio Alba for filming over the period.   An t‑Eilean has already demonstrated the very real economic, cultural and reputational benefits that high‑quality screen production can bring to the Outer Hebrides. Supporting the second series aligns closely with our economic strategy, strengthens our creative industries, and helps ensure that the islands continue to be seen as a centre for Gaelic language, culture and talent.”

Joanna Peteranna, Director of Area Operations at HIE, said:  “We are very pleased to support the

An t‑Eilean production, which demonstrates the economic and cultural value of Gaelic screen content to the region. The production is expected to generate significant local economic activity, while supporting local jobs, businesses and services. Just as importantly, it is helping to build long‑term capacity in the Gaelic screen sector through targeted training and skills development, ensuring talented people can build creative careers in and from our island communities.”

images © John Maher

 

BBC Charter Renewal

Tapadh leibh airson ùidh a ghabhail ann an Cairt a BhBC agus na cothroman a dh’fhaodadh a bhith na lùib airson BBC ALBA.

Thank you far taking an interest in the BBC Charter review and how it could improve BBC ALBA. 

Carson a tha seo cudromach | Why this matters

The renewal of the BBC Charter is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to secure the long-term future of Gaelic broadcasting. Right now, BBC ALBA does not have the same legal protections, funding security or prominence as Welsh-language channel S4C. The gap of almost £100 million is significant and growing.

Na tha sinn a’ moladh | Our recommendations 

  1. Maoineachadh seasmhach | Secure funding

The Secretary of State, in consultation with Scottish Ministers, should determine annual funding for BBC ALBA and Radio nan Gàidheal in the same way and at the same time as S4C.

This should clearly state:

  • What funding comes from the Licence Fee via the BBC
  • What funding Scottish Ministers provide via Ofcom for MG ALBA

This would provide stability, clarity and parity.

  1. Cothrom nas fheàrr BBC ALBA a lorg | Make BBC ALBA easy to find

Ofcom should require prominence for BBC ALBA on BBC iPlayer.

This could include:

  • A single-click Gaelic homepage
  • Personalised or geographic discovery options
  • Clear visibility alongside other national language services
  1. Luchd-amhairc eadar-nàiseanta | Let the world watch

Gaelic content should be available internationally.

This could mean:

  • Removing geo-blocking for Gaelic content
  • Creating a dedicated international BBC ALBA platform
  • Recognising the global Gaelic diaspora
  1. Dìon an t-seanail | Protect the channel

The Charter should guarantee the continuation of a linear BBC ALBA service.

Leugh am pàipear fiosrachaidh | Read the full briefing paper

Download the full briefing: Briefing Note for BBC Charter

 

GABH PÀIRT | HOW TO TAKE ACTION 

Ceann-là | Deadline: 10 March 2026

  1. Leugh a’ cho-chomhairleachaidh | Read the consultation

Access it here: Britain’s Story: The Next Chapter – BBC Royal Charter Review, Green Paper and public consultation – GOV.UK

  1. Lìon an suirbhidh | Complete the survey

Complete the survey here: BBC Charter Review Public Consultation
(Question 4 refers specifically to Gaelic media.)

  1. Cuir post-d fa leth | Send a fuller response by email

Email: bbccharterreview@dcms.gov.uk

  1. Cuir peann ri pàipear | Write a letter

Ensure it arrives by the deadline:

BBC Charter Review Team
Department for Culture, Media & Sport
100 Parliament Street
London
SW1A 2BQ

TAPADH LEIBH | THANK YOU

MG ALBA announces funding for two Gaelic short films under Screen Scotland’s Take Three scheme, alongside major Edinburgh TV Festival session

Edinburgh, 21 August 2025 – MG ALBA has announced its involvement in Screen Scotland’s landmark Take Three talent development initiative, confirming funding for two Gaelic short films as part of the scheme.

The announcement was made today at the Edinburgh TV Festival, where MG ALBA sponsored and contributed to the prestigious panel session Language as Power: Local Languages Go Global. The session brought together leading voices from across the screen industries to discuss how Gaelic and Irish media are breaking through to mainstream audiences.

Gaelic Short Films through Take Three

Take Three, launched earlier this year by Screen Scotland and supported by the National Lottery and BFI, is Scotland’s most ambitious film talent development programme in a generation. MG ALBA’s backing will see two Gaelic short films produced under the scheme, providing vital opportunities for emerging Gaelic voices and building on the growing success of Gaelic-language screen content.

Kieran Hannigan, Head of Scripted at Screen Scotland said:

“Screen Scotland’s Talent Builder is a five-year commitment to early-stage filmmaking talent in this country. The interlinked programmes are designed to widen access, create greater opportunity and build a clear pathway for talent. We’re already working with Astar Media in Stornoway on Opening Shot, our early development shorts programme so It’s fantastic to now have MG ALBA on board to offer additional opportunities, specifically for Gaelic talent. Screen Scotland is committed to supporting Gaelic talent and has also supported a range of Gaelic development projects and productions, including An t-Eilean and Hebridean Baker: Nordic Islands.”

Bill MacLeod, Commissioning Editor at MG ALBA, said:

“MG ALBA are delighted to be funding two Gaelic short films under the Take Three talent development scheme, a Screen Scotland project funded by the National Lottery and BFI. This initiative is another important step in developing the next generation of Gaelic filmmakers and storytellers.”

The move highlights MG ALBA’s increasing focus on Gaelic drama and talent development. Following the success of hit Gaelic noir An t-Eilean – which scooped both the Drama & Entertainment Prize and the Grand Prix at the Prix CIRCOM 2025 Awards – MG ALBA has secured increased government support for 2025/26, enabling fresh initiatives in drama, including involvement in Take Three and ongoing discussions with BBC Film for a forthcoming Gaelic feature film development call.

Spotlight at the Edinburgh TV Festival

MG ALBA’s announcement came during its sponsored panel at the Edinburgh TV Festival – one of the most prestigious events in the television industry calendar.

Entitled Language as Power: Local Languages Go Global, the session challenged industry stereotypes about Celtic-language content and celebrated the critical and commercial success of productions such as Kneecap and An t-Eilean. It also explored the opportunities and challenges in ensuring Celtic-language media continues to thrive.

The panel was hosted by award-winning journalist and author Sophia Smith Galer, and featured a stellar line-up:

  • Sorcha Groundsell, actor, An t-Eilean
  • Rich Peppiatt, writer/director, Kneecap
  • Douglas Mackinnon, director/showrunner (Sherlock, Good Omens)
  • Bill MacLeod, commissioning editor, MG ALBA

Speaking at the Festival, MacLeod highlighted the importance of showcasing Gaelic storytelling on such a significant platform:

“To be sharing a stage at the Edinburgh TV Festival with such exceptional talent is a proud moment for Gaelic media. This visibility shows there is fertile ground and real appetite for Gaelic stories, particularly among younger audiences. Gaelic is not just surviving, it is thriving – and the industry is taking notice.”

Looking Ahead

MG ALBA’s participation in Take Three marks a major step forward for Gaelic cinema, underlining the organisation’s determination to nurture new talent and stories that resonate both locally and globally.

With fresh investment and collaborations on the horizon MG ALBA is cementing its place at the heart of Scotland’s screen storytelling future.

First Minister John Swinney announces funding boost for Gaelic broadcasting ahead of Western Isles visit

First Minister John Swinney has announced funding of £690,000 for Gaelic broadcasting ahead of a visit to the Western Isles.

The cash will help transform MG Alba Stornoway into a cutting-edge Gaelic media and creative hub, while supporting energy efficiency improvements to ensure the facility is fit for the future.

The First Minister will undertake a number of visits and engagements during his trip to the islands, including the deep-water terminal in Stornoway, Hebridean Housing Partnership, Western Isles Hospital, and community projects in North and South Uist.

John Swinney said: “Our £690,000 investment will create a new creative centre for Gaelic media at the site of MG Alba’s Stornoway headquarters, putting them ahead of the curve and ensuring they can continue to provide high-quality Gaelic content.

“Our islands are also at the forefront of harnessing Scotland’s renewables potential to build a sustainable energy future. The deep-water terminal in Stornoway is a significant and impressive piece of infrastructure, supported by Scottish Government funding, that will unlock the island’s economic potential both as a green energy gateway and a cruise ship destination.”

The First Minister will arrive in Lewis this evening before undertaking engagements on Friday. He will travel to North Uist and South Uist on Saturday.

Record-breaking year for MG ALBA as Gaelic drama goes global

MG ALBA has published its 2024/25 Annual Report, marking a transformative year for Gaelic broadcasting with record digital viewing figures, a landmark drama series, and a renewed call for fair and sustainable funding. 

The annual report celebrates An t-Eilean — a gripping crime thriller filmed on location in Harris — as the most successful Gaelic TV programme ever made. In the 2024/25 year alone, it drew 1.6 million BBC iPlayer views, accounting for 20% of the record-breaking 8.1 million total views for Gaelic content. This standout performance highlights the impact of high-quality Gaelic drama and its growing appeal, with An t-Eilean also attracting international attention from outlets such as The Hollywood Reporter. 

In a major international milestone, MG ALBA is also celebrating An t-Eilean’s recent triumph at the Prix CIRCOM 2025 awards, where it took home the coveted Grand Prix – the highest honour in the prestigious European television awards. 

“This was a year of creative ambition and digital transformation,” said MG ALBA Chair John Morrison. “With every £1 invested, we attracted £3 more in funding. But to maintain this momentum and reach younger, digital-first Gaelic speakers, we urgently need a longer-term, realistic budget.” 

Key highlights: 

  • £1.8m funding uplift from Scottish Government – but only for one year 
  • SpeakGaelic exceeded 10 million content views 
  • FilmG had 100+ youth entries for the second year running 
  • An t-Eilean, Clò Beag Chirsty Bella and Mathan Leis an Ainm Wojtek earned international recognition 
  • 340+ jobs supported, over half in the Highlands and Islands 


Despite these achievements, the report warns that MG ALBA’s core budget is still £10 million behind where it would be if it had kept up with inflation — putting future content creation and digital innovation at serious risk. Continued investment is essential to ensure Gaelic media can thrive in an increasingly competitive and digital-first landscape — and a dedicated Gaelic Growth Deal is now vital to secure the sector’s future.
 

The full report is available here.

MG ALBA’s Margaret Cameron receives special recognition at RTS Scotland Awards

The Royal Television Society (RTS) Scotland hosted its annual awards ceremony on Friday (6 June) where Margaret Cameron, director of content at MG ALBA, was honoured with the prestigious RTS Scotland Special Recognition Award.

Presented by singer and actress Shereen Cutkelvin, alongside Still Game star Sanjeev Kohli, the award celebrates those whose exceptional contributions have made a lasting impact and are widely respected within the Scottish television community. The RTS Scotland Committee presents the award to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding excellence in Scottish broadcasting and television.

RTS Scotland champions the gold standard of television excellence in Scotland, recognising outstanding achievements in programme making, broadcasting and contributions that shape the industry’s future.

The regional awards, held at the iconic Old Fruitmarket in Glasgow, also recognised other prominent figures in Scottish television, including Ashley Jensen, Peter Capaldi and Michelle McManus.

Margaret Cameron, director of content at MG ALBA, said: “It was a true honour to be awarded the Special Recognition Award at the RTS Scotland ceremony. The RTS Scotland awards are testament to the creative effort behind first class television productions in Scotland, including MG ALBA’s partnership with BBC ALBA to bring Gaelic content to screens across the country. It’s more important than ever that Gaelic content is recognised and celebrated as part of the Scottish industry.

“My thanks to the RTS Scotland Committee, both for the award and for recognising work supporting the Gaelic language, and to my colleagues at MG ALBA and the BBC whose support is everything. Congratulations to all the recipients of this year’s awards.”

Dan Twist, chair of RTS Scotland, said: “The RTS Scotland Awards stand as a definitive celebration of the finest talent in Scottish television. This year’s outstanding nominees and winners reflect the strength and resilience of a thriving Scottish TV industry, even in the face of widespread sector challenges.

“RTS Scotland is proud to continue its unwavering commitment to supporting, educating and championing talent across all areas of the industry — both on screen and behind the scenes.”

In addition to Margaret’s success, Gaelic language content was nominated in four other award categories on the night, alongside Padruig MacCuidhein in the On-Screen Personality category. Full details of the categories can be found here.