Amol Rajan is set to give the Alternative MacTaggart Lecture at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
Rajan, who is transitioning away from the BBC to establish a digital talent agency, plans to discuss “the significance of journalism in an age of misinformation and the urgent need to dive into the expansive digital realm of the creator economy.”
Having spent the last decade as one of the BBC’s standout presenters, Rajan is preparing to leave the broadcaster. His roles have included Media Editor, host of the Radio 4 Today program, and creator of his own documentary series. He will continue working independently, hosting University Challenge and the Radical with Amol Rajan podcast.
The Alternative MacTaggart aims to offer a fresh perspective compared to the main MacTaggart Lecture, which has yet to reveal this year’s speaker. Last year, the alternative lecture was presented by YouTube sensation Munya Chawawa, who criticized the television industry for its stagnation and reliance on “the same outdated gatekeepers.” Rajan is expected to partner with similar innovative figures in his new venture.
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Rajan is among the first announced for the Edinburgh 2026 lineup, alongside Line of Duty star Vicky McClure and producer Jonny Owen.
This year might mark the last time the festival is held in its traditional Scottish venue as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The event’s future location is under consideration, with potential moves to Greater Manchester, Newcastle, or a continued presence in Edinburgh.
Adam Hawkins, the Edinburgh Advisory Chair, commented, “This year’s Festival arrives at a critical juncture for the television industry. The landscape is rife with both challenges and opportunities. Figures like Amol and Vicky bring unique and influential perspectives that could help steer the future of television in various capacities.”