1 May 2012 Last updated at 21:40 ET

Rolf Harris to receive Bafta Fellowship

Rolf Harris' television career has spanned six decades

Australian entertainer Rolf Harris is to be awarded the Bafta Fellowship at this year's Bafta TV Awards.

The 82-year-old is being recognised for his "outstanding and exceptional contribution to television".

Harris, whose career has spanned six decades, said he was "hugely honoured and very thrilled" to receive the fellowship.

He will be presented with his award at the ceremony at London's Royal Festival Hall on 27 May.

Signed by the BBC in 1953, Harris's broadcasting career has spanned a variety of genres including children's television, arts and factual entertainment.

Best known for his programmes Rolf's Cartoon Club, Rolf on Art and Animal Hospital, he also entertained as a musician.

In 2005 he was commissioned to paint a portrait of the Queen by the BBC to celebrate her 80th birthday. The accompanying programme, The Queen by Rolf, was watched by some seven million people.

He was made a CBE a year later.

"Rolf Harris is one of the world's most iconic entertainers," said Bafta chairman Tim Corrie.

"He has huge audience appeal across multiple generations, and we are delighted to honour his contribution to television and the arts."

The Bafta Fellowship is the highest accolade bestowed upon an individual in recognition of their work.

Previous recipients include Lord Bragg, Sir David Jason, Sir Bruce Forsyth and Sir David Frost.

Sir Trevor McDonald received the Fellowship at last year's TV awards.