British actor and animal welfare campaigner Peter Egan has been named one of the first recipients of a Jane Goodall Hope Award, recognition that places his long-running advocacy for animals alongside the legacy of one of conservation’s most influential figures.
Egan received the honour at the inaugural Hope Gala, held at The Peninsula London on March 23, 2026. The event supported the Jane Goodall Institute UK and its Roots & Shoots youth programme, while celebrating the life and work of Dame Jane Goodall.
One of three inaugural honourees
The awards recognise people whose passion, courage and dedication are helping to shape a better future for animals, people and the planet. Egan was honoured alongside comedian and philanthropist Ricky Gervais and Animals Asia founder Dr Jill Robinson.
Reporting from the ceremony described Egan as receiving the award for his work as an animal rights campaigner. He is an ambassador or patron for several welfare organisations, including Animals Asia and All Dogs Matter, and has repeatedly used his public profile to speak about veganism, wildlife protection and the treatment of animals.
The Jane Goodall Institute UK says the gala brought together leaders from business, culture and philanthropy. The organisation called the event a defining moment for its UK work and a commitment to carrying Goodall’s message of hope forward.
A public voice for animals
Egan’s advocacy has become a major part of his public life. Beyond supporting individual charities, he has campaigned against cruelty and exploitation and encouraged audiences to see animals as sentient beings deserving protection and compassion.
His relationship with the Jane Goodall Institute gives the honour added resonance. The institute lists Egan as an ambassador and describes him as a long-time friend of the organisation and a tireless campaigner for animal welfare.
The gala itself was designed to connect that legacy with future action. Goodall’s Roots & Shoots programme now operates in countries around the world, encouraging young people to lead projects for animals, communities and the environment.
Hope as a call to action
The first Jane Goodall Hope Awards underline that advocacy can take many forms: direct rescue, scientific research, sanctuary work, philanthropy and the use of a public platform to change attitudes. Egan’s award highlights the role that sustained, visible campaigning can play in keeping animal welfare in the public conversation.
For supporters of animal protection, the recognition is also a reminder that cultural figures can help extend the reach of conservation organisations. Egan’s work has connected audiences who know him from television and film with campaigns that might otherwise struggle for attention.
The central facts of the honour were confirmed by the Press Association report published by the Evening Standard, while Animals Asia confirmed that Egan was among the three inaugural recipients.
