As Patron of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge spoke about the absence of diversity at the BAFTA Awards 2020.
The Royal while delivering a speech and presentation of Fellowship award to Kathleen Kennedy, a film producer said it “cannot be right in this day and age.”
His speech read:
“Both here in the UK and in many other countries across the world, we are lucky to have incredible film makers, actors, producers, directors and technicians – men and women from all backgrounds and ethnicities enriching our lives through film. Yet in 2020, and not for the first time in the last few years, we find ourselves talking again about the need to do more to ensure diversity in the sector and in the awards process – that simply cannot be right in this day and age! I know that both Pippa, Chair of BAFTA, and Amanda, BAFTA CEO, share that frustration and continue to work tirelessly to ensure that creative talent is discovered and supported. BAFTA take this issue seriously, and following this year’s nominations, have launched a full and thorough review of the entire Awards process to build on their existing work and ensure that opportunities are available to everyone.”
The event which took place at London’s Royal Albert Hall, graced the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the red carpet in recycled outfits as encouraged by BAFTA. This year’s focus was on sustainability, a cause that is supported by Prince William, who has been the President since February 2010.
HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, was the organisation’s first president in 1959, a year after The British Film Academy (founded 1947) and the Guild of Television Producers and Directors merged to create the Society of Film and Television Arts (SFTA, a forerunner of BAFTA). The organization has since enjoyed Royal involvements; all but one of BAFTA’s presidents in its history have been members of the Royal Family.
