Prince William shares ‘frustration’ over lack of diversity during Baftas speech

‘We find ourselves talking again about the need to do more to ensure diversity in the sector and in the awards process,’ Duke says

The Duke of Cambridge emphasised the importance of diversity in the entertainment industry while delivering a speech at the Baftas, expressing his “frustration” that it still requires improvement “in this day and age”.

During last night’s awards ceremony, which took place at the Royal Albert Hall, Prince William presented film producer Kathleen Kennedy with the Bafta Fellowship Award.

While introducing Kennedy, the Duke – who holds the position of president of Bafta – said that Bafta is making a strong effort to “ensure that opportunities are available to everyone”.

“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,” the royal said during his address.

“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.”

Prince William said that Dame Pippa Harris, chair of Bafta, and Amanda Berry, CEO of the organisation, share his “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,” he stated.

The Duke jokingly added that he wasn’t sure whether he should feel “proud or slightly alarmed” over the number of actors who have won Baftas over the past 10 years for playing members of the royal family.

Later during the evening’s proceedings, Prince William made the acquaintance of all the Bafta winners.

Joaquin Phoenix, who won the Leading Actor Bafta for his performance in Joker, thanked the Duke for his speech.

Phoenix also used his time on stage to make a statement about the lack of diversity during this year’s awards season, saying he felt “ashamed” by the all-white acting nominations.

Prince William speaks with Joaquin Phoenix at the Baftas (Getty Images)

“We really have to do the hard work to truly understand systemic racism,” the actor said. “I think that it is the obligation of the people who have created and perpetuated and benefited from a system of oppression to dismantle it… so that’s on us.”

The Duchess of Cambridge championed sustainability at the awards ceremony, wearing an Alexander McQueen gold-embroidered gown that she had worn on several occasions before.

To take a look at all the best-dressed guests at the star-studded event, click here.