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 onBBC 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 byCaledonia TV , the series is a rare Gaelic-language contender at a major international awards ceremony, highlighting growing recognition for non-English programming.