Kate Beckinsale criticizes BAFTA for possibly excluding her stepfather from the ‘In Memoriam’ segment, calling it ‘horribly cold
Actress Kate Beckinsale Fights for Recognition of Late Stepfather at BAFTA Awards
Renowned actress Kate Beckinsale is expressing her disappointment over the possibility of her late stepfather, Roy Battersby, being excluded from the upcoming “In Memoriam” segment at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards. This prestigious event is the British equivalent of Hollywood‘s Academy Awards.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Beckinsale shared the news of her stepfather’s recent passing and her frustration with BAFTA organizers who informed her that they couldn’t guarantee his inclusion in the tribute. She found this response to be unacceptable.
“So a man dead less than a week somehow has to audition in front of a committee after a decades-long career to decide IF his death is worth mentioning,” the actress expressed to her 5.6 million Instagram followers.
Beckinsale accompanied her message with a photo from the 1996 BAFTAs, where her stepfather received the Alan Clarke Award for his exceptional work as a television director. This snub from BAFTA deeply saddened her.
“That has broken my heart all over again. I am paralyzed, sick and sickened, and I will honor him and his work every day of my life,” she wrote in her post. “So thanks again, BAFTA, for your horribly cold email.”
Kate Beckinsale’s mother, Judy Loe, is an English television actress, and Battersby was her stepfather until his recent passing. Beckinsale’s father was the late actor Richard Beckinsale, who was married to Loe from 1977 until his death in 1979.
This issue of celebrities being left out of “In Memoriam” tributes has gained attention recently. Fans of talk show host Jerry Springer were shocked when The Emmys failed to mention the late TV star.
Emmy producer Jesse Collins explained that selecting who gets memorialized is one of the most challenging aspects of the show. ”The selection process is handled by the Television Academy, so we focus more on the creative side of it,” Collins told Entertainment Tonight. “And it’s just about making sure that when we are acknowledging someone, we give them their just due and it’s respectful and loving, and we just try to make sure that we accomplish that.”
Notably, the “In Memoriam” segment at this year’s Emmy Awards also omitted other prominent TV stars who passed away last year, including Raquel Welch and Ray Stevenson.
The BAFTA Awards will take place on February 18, 2024.
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Is it fair for organizations like BAFTA to prioritize popularity over the lasting impact individuals have had on the film and television industry when selecting individuals for their tribute?
Tagram followers. ”Shame on you @BAFTA. I officially have just lost all faith in your organization.”
Beckinsale’s stepfather, Roy Battersby, was a well-respected television director known for his work on popular series such as “Z-Cars” and “Dixon of Dock Green.” He passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy that has significantly contributed to the British television industry. Despite his achievements, it appears that BAFTA is hesitant to acknowledge his contributions in their annual tribute.
The “In Memoriam” segment at the BAFTA Awards is intended to honor and pay respects to individuals from the film and television industry who have passed away in the previous year. It is an opportunity for the industry to remember and celebrate the lives and legacies of those who have made a significant impact. Excluding Battersby from this recognition seems unjust and disheartening.
Beckinsale’s frustration is understandable, as she believes that her stepfather deserves to be recognized for his immense contributions to the industry. His body of work spans several decades and includes multiple critically acclaimed projects. It is only fitting that BAFTA should include him in their tribute and honor his legacy alongside other industry veterans.
This controversy raises important questions about how organizations such as BAFTA determine who should be included in their annual memoriam segment. Is it purely based on popularity? Shouldn’t the focus be on recognizing individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry, regardless of their level of fame?
It is essential for institutions like BAFTA to review their selection process and ensure that it is fair and inclusive. Acknowledging individuals for their contributions, regardless of their level of fame, is crucial in preserving the rich history and diversity of the film and television industry. Neglecting to do so not only disrespects the legacies of those who have passed away but also diminishes the credibility and integrity of the institution itself.
As Beckinsale aptly stated, “The man has had a 70 year career in television and film. And yet in death Rob is continuing to be overlooked.”
With her public plea for recognition, Beckinsale is not only fighting for her stepfather’s legacy but also for the recognition and respect of all those who have made significant contributions to the industry. It is hoped that her powerful message will spark a conversation and bring about change within the BAFTA organization.
The film and television industry thrives on the talents and dedication of countless individuals, many of whom go unrecognized. It is essential that organizations such as BAFTA take it upon themselves to ensure that these individuals are honored and remembered for their invaluable contributions. Only then can the industry truly celebrate its own and provide a lasting legacy for future generations to admire.
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