Hannah Waddingham is set to receive the Crystal Award for Advocacy in TV at the 2026 Women in Film (WIF) Honors, recognizing her achievements and commitment to advancing gender equality in entertainment.
The Emmy-winning Ted Lasso actress will be honored on November 5, 2026, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. The announcement was made on October 19, adding Waddingham to a lineup that includes Salma Hayek Pinault, Adria Arjona and Pamela Abdy.
Why Hannah Waddingham Is Receiving the Crystal Award
Women in Film CEO Kirsten Schaffer praised Waddingham’s contributions both on and off screen, highlighting how her portrayal of Rebecca Welton in Ted Lasso reflects challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries.
“Off-screen, Hannah uses her powerful platform to advocate for gender equality,” Schaffer said.
The organization noted that Rebecca’s efforts to establish herself as the owner of a professional football club closely reflect the barriers women continue to encounter in entertainment.
Waddingham’s portrayal earned her a Primetime Emmy Award, alongside Critics Choice and Hollywood Critics Association recognition.
Hannah Waddingham’s Career Beyond Ted Lasso
Before becoming internationally recognized through Ted Lasso, Waddingham established herself as an accomplished West End performer, earning multiple Olivier Award nominations.
Her television credits include Game of Thrones and Sex Education, while her recent film appearances include The Fall Guy, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and The Woman in Cabin 10.
Her transition from musical theater to television and Hollywood demonstrates the range that has helped establish her international career.
The Crystal Award recognizes more than individual performances, celebrating artists whose success creates opportunities for other women working across film and television.
Salma Hayek and Other Stars Join WIF Honors
Waddingham joins several prominent entertainment figures being recognized at this year’s ceremony.
Salma Hayek Pinault will receive the Jane Fonda Humanitarian Award, presented by Jane Fonda herself.
Warner Bros. executive Pamela Abdy will receive the Vanguard Award from Nancy Meyers, while Adria Arjona will accept the WIF Max Mara Face of the Future Award.
Meanwhile, Emmy Rossum will present the Crystal Award for Advocacy in Film to filmmaker Beth de Araújo and actress Gemma Chan for their collaboration on Josephine. Chan will be honored in absentia.
Presented by Max Mara, the November 5 ceremony also serves as Women in Film’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting advocacy, research and career-development programs.
For Waddingham, the honor recognizes a career that has grown from London’s theater stages into international television success, alongside her advocacy for greater opportunities for women.
