JLS star JB Gill has received an honorary fellowship from King's College London. The singer and presenter, 39, described it as an "honour" to return to his former university to accept the prestigious accolade, 18 years after rising to fame with the boyband JLS. Gill studied theology at King's before joining JLS, the group that launched a pop career after finishing as runner-up on The X Factor in 2008.
Long-Standing Connection
He has maintained a strong relationship with the university and previously hosted the King's Alumni Awards. The Fellowship of King's College is awarded to individuals who have had a transformative impact on the university through their work or activities and who have left a lasting legacy.
Family Support
The former Strictly Come Dancing star shared photos from the event at the Royal Festival Hall alongside his wife Chloe and their children Ace and Chiara. "Big Day Today!! Officially presented my Fellowship of Kings College London," he wrote on social media. "I’m so proud to have attended KCL and today was a GREAT day attending my first graduation ceremony, giving my first address as a Fellow and having my whole family there to support me. I love you and I’m so proud of myself #KingsCollegeLondon #Fellowship #Graduate #TheGills."
Chloe shared on her Instagram: "I always say you’re a man who wears many hats but today you were awarded a very big one!! I’m so so proud of you @jbgill! Look at you being awarded a Fellowship of Kings College London under the age of 40! You truly are one of a kind and we love you very much #thegills #graduate."
Bandmates' Congratulations
Gill's former JLS bandmates flooded the comments with support. Aston Merrygold said "Incredible stuff brother," Oritse Williams replied "Love this bro," and Marvin Humes commented "Congratulations brother..proud of you..always." Marvin's wife, singer-turned-presenter Rochelle Humes, also wrote: "Proud of you Mr Gill."
Gill's Reflections
Speaking of the day, Gill said: "It is an incredible honour to be awarded a Fellowship by King's College University London. King's has played such an important role in my life, having studied Theology here before beginning my music and broadcasting career. Over the years, I have maintained a strong connection with the University and feel aligned to the causes they champion - from education and social mobility, to environmental awareness." He added: "I am immensely proud to be a part of the King's community and to have my family here today to celebrate this moment feels very special." Gill concluded: "My hope is that I can inspire my own children, and others, to embrace learning, seize opportunities and use their voices to make a positive change in the world."
