Hollywood actor Benedict Wong has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from the University of Salford, celebrating his international acting career and his roots in the city. The 55-year-old, born in Eccles, is best known for playing Wong in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in films such as Doctor Strange, Shang-Chi, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Avengers: Endgame.
A Homecoming Honor
During a graduation ceremony at The Lowry theatre on July 13, 2026, Wong accepted the doctorate and shared reflections on his journey. He described his career as a "34-year overnight success" and emphasized the importance of his Salford upbringing. "All the shiny things that you've heard are standing on the foundations of where I grew up," he told the graduates.
Wong recalled formative experiences, including "lock-ins at the Black Horse" pub, his time at the university's Adelphi theatre, and sweeping floors and collecting tickets at the Green Room theatre on Whitworth Street West. He credited the Arts Emergency fund for helping young actors and thanked those at the Library Theatre in Manchester Central Library, where he would "be sneaked in to watch a show."
Advice for Graduates
Offering wisdom to the new graduates, Wong said: "Never lose the sense of belief, you just need a kernel of it. That's all you need." He urged them to "do something every day that leads you to your dream until it's no longer a dream, until it's realised." He added: "You need grit, a lot of perseverance, dedication, hard-work, and a lot of sacrifice. I wish you all the best."
The former Performing Arts student at Salford City College also performed at Shakespeare's Globe theatre under Academy Award-winning actor Sir Mark Rylance and appeared as Zhang Lin in the five-time Olivier Award-winning play Chimerica.
University Praise
Professor Nic Beech, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Salford, said: "Benedict Wong has built a remarkable career across stage and screen with talent, integrity and quiet determination. From Shakespeare to science fiction, intimate character drama to global cinema, Benedict provides a strong sense of truth on every performance and his work is grounded in craft, humour and humanity."
He added: "He has represented Salford on the world stage and shown that local roots can support global reach. We are proud to recognise him today as an actor of international standing, a powerful creative voice and a true Salfordian success story."
