Prince William was moved to tears by Helen Mirren’s tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at the BAFTAs on Sunday night.
“The best movies can do for us what Her Majesty accomplished so effortlessly: they bring us together through our common experience and emotion. You were a shining example of our nation’s ideals while you were with us, Your Majesty “The actress, who had won a BAFTA for her portrayal of the late king, referred to his passing on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96.
“BAFTAs’ link with Her Majesty was extensive, and BAFTAs would not be what they are now without her constant support,” she remarked. “Her 1953 coronation was televised throughout the world, and ever since then, she has been the country’s most famous female figurehead. Despite his anonymity, he nonetheless managed to project the aura of a classic movie star.”
Mirren detailed the Queen’s historic links with artists and actresses throughout the world and commented on how the late monarch was a part of it all, from Hollywood’s ‘Golden Age’ to the era of the ‘Blockbuster.
That was a front-row seat for Her Majesty, according to Mirren.
Attendees at the Royal Festival Hall show in London, including Prince William and Duchess Kate, watched the performance. The Duke of Cambridge appeared to be wiping away tears during Helen Mirren’s tribute to him and his wife Kate, who was the show’s featured guests on Sunday. As president of the British Academy of Cinema and Television Arts, William was present at the presentation to congratulate the winners and talk with the EE Rising Star nominees.
As reported by the British Academy: “The Queen has had a long and meaningful association with the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), spanning more than 50 years. As a result of her various patronages, the Queen earned a reputation for her support of the arts in the United Kingdom.”
During the annual British movie awards, Prince Philip was honored twice before his death on April 9, 2021, at the age of 99. Before his death, he served as President of BAFTA from 1959 to 1965.
“Prince Philip and Her Majesty the Queen’s help over these years…allowed BAFTA to continue in bad times and be here today in 2021 enjoying another amazing year of achievement in film,” Clara Amfo remarked as host of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards ceremony. “The Duke of Edinburgh holds a special position in BAFTA history. The thoughts and prayers of the whole community are with his loved ones at this time. Our hearts go out to the royal family.”
The 2023 BAFTAs were hosted by Richard E. Grant, and backstage at the BAFTA Studio, Alison Hammond interviewed the nominees and winners. The 2020 ceremony was William and Kate’s first in-person appearance at the British Film Awards since the pandemic and Philip’s death prevented them from returning the following year.
