Martin Lewis, widely known as the Money Saving Expert, has been honored with a special award for outstanding contribution at this year’s TV Baftas. The accolade, which recognizes individuals or organizations whose television work has had a significant cultural or social impact, places Lewis among past recipients such as Idris Elba, Shonda Rhimes, and Delia Smith.

Over more than two decades, the 53-year-old financial journalist has become a trusted figure for millions of viewers seeking advice on saving money and managing personal finances. He has appeared regularly on programs including This Morning, Good Morning Britain (GMB), and since 2012, The Martin Lewis Money Show. Lewis emphasizes that he is a journalist rather than a financial adviser, but his influence is undeniable. His weekly email newsletter reaches around 10 million subscribers, and his social media presence boasts 3.3 million followers on X. Despite the reach of digital platforms, Lewis remains most passionate about traditional television, valuing direct engagement with audiences.

Sarah Putt, chair of Bafta, described Lewis as “the most trusted man in television in a world where a lot of people aren’t so well trusted,” crediting him with changing how the British public approaches money. Lewis has used his platform to advocate for financial education in schools and has successfully campaigned for regulatory reforms, including protections for buy-now-pay-later schemes and increased grace periods for council tax payments. His ability to engage with policymakers is well established; he claims to have been consulted by almost every Chancellor of the Exchequer since Gordon Brown, although he acknowledges some have been less receptive than others.

Lewis’s role comes with significant personal challenges. Known for his private nature, he is frequently contacted by individuals facing serious financial hardship, often overwhelmed by pleas for help. He has also become one of the most impersonated celebrities in UK scams, with fraudsters using his name to exploit vulnerable people. Lewis leads a team dedicated to combating these scams, a task he equates to a full-time job. He highlighted the emotional toll of reading victims’ stories, particularly one involving a grandmother who lost money entrusted to her for her grandchildren.

His campaigning efforts contributed to the inclusion of scam advertisements in the Online Safety Act, though he expresses frustration that full enforcement will not come until 2027. Lewis’s commitment to protecting consumers persists despite these setbacks.

Lewis’s path to prominence began in 2003 when, after being made redundant, he invested £100 to launch the Money Saving Expert website. He later sold the business in 2012 for £87 million but continues to engage actively with consumer issues. He regularly switches utility providers and remains vigilant about finding value in everyday purchases.

His cultural impact extends beyond consumer advice. A public poll four years ago named him the celebrity Britons would most like to see as prime minister, though Lewis has no political ambitions. Nonetheless, his influence on government policy and public debate has been described as substantial, with political figures acknowledging the significance of his campaigns.

Despite his high profile and achievements, Lewis is characterized by a restless energy and a continual drive to do more. As he received the Bafta award, it was clear that his focus remains on the future, with ongoing efforts to improve financial literacy and consumer protection in the UK.