Prince William issues surprise new video message after BAFTAs no-show
William is president of BAFTAPrince William missed the BAFTAs last night (Sunday, February 16). However, that didn’t stop him from making his mark at the ceremony.
The Prince of Wales – who is president of BAFTA – skipped the prestigious award ceremony in London yesterday.
Prince William and Princess Kate miss the BAFTAs
Last week, it was reported that William and wife Kate would miss the BAFTAs ceremony.
The royal couple last attended the event together in 2023. Last year, amid Kate’s cancer battle, Prince William attended the ceremony on his own.
It was revealed that the reason behind them missing the show was due to it being the beginning of half-term for their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
According to reports, this meant that the royal couple would be prioritising family time over attending the star-studded awards ceremony in London.
William was appointed the President of BAFTA in 2010. However, he has yet to attend consecutive years with Kate by his side.
Prince William makes surprise appearance at the BAFTAs ceremony
However, despite not appearing in person, William did appear via video.
In a pre-recorded video, the future king introduced the EE Rising Star Award.
The Rising Star Award is awarded to young actors who have demonstrated exceptional talent and ambition. This year marked its 20th anniversary.
What a line-up of exceptional talent!
Previous award winners include James McAvoy, Tom Holland, Emma Mackey, and Daniel Kaluuya.
Speaking in the video, William said: “Good evening everyone. As President of BAFTA, I’m delighted to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the Rising Star Award, which is presented in honour of Mary Selway.”
“What a 20 years and what a line-up of exceptional talent! Since 2006 this award has not only championed the industry’s rising stars but has helped to inspire the next generation of acting talent to pursue their dreams,” he then continued.
Prince of Wales gushes over ‘incredibly talented people’ at BAFTAs
The prince then continued.
“The five incredibly talented people nominated tonight demonstrate a remarkable range of performances and have each captured the imagination of audiences over the last year,” he said.
“Judging by the international success of the previous nominees and winners of this award, I am certain we will be seeing much more of their work over the next twenty years and beyond.”
“To announce this year’s nominees please welcome to the stage two previous winners of the EE Rising Star Award, both of whom are soon to make their directorial debuts, it’s James McAvoy and Letitia Wright. Have a wonderful night,” he added added.
The award was then given to David Jonsson, star of Rye Lane, Alien: Romulus, and Industry.
What do you think of William’s appearance at the BAFTAs? Let us know by leaving a comment on our Facebook page @RoyalInsiderOfficial.
