BAFTA Pulls ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Nomination Due To Bryan Singer Allegations
The BAFTAs are taking a lesson from the GLAAD Media Awards and have decided to pull Bohemian Rhapsody from the Outstanding British Film Category in light of sexual abuse allegations made against its director Bryan Singer.
Last month, Bryan was hit with new claims of sex with underage boys in an exposé by The Atlantic. After the report, the director called the article “a homophobic smear piece” that was “conveniently timed to take advantage” of the film’s success.
In the wake of the report, GLAAD disqualified the film from its awards ceremony.
Now, BAFTA says that it considers the alleged behavior “completely unacceptable and incompatible with its values,” but notes Bryan’s denial of the allegations. “The suspension of his nomination will therefore remain in place until the outcome of the allegations has been resolved.”
Bryan was left out of the marketing or press for the film during its near $830 million box office. Read BAFTA’s full statement below:
In light of recent very serious allegations, BAFTA has informed Bryan Singer that his nomination for ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ has been suspended, effective immediately.
BAFTA considers the alleged behaviour completely unacceptable and incompatible with its values. This has led to Mr Singer’s suspended nomination. BAFTA notes Mr Singer’s denial of the allegations. The suspension of his nomination will therefore remain in place until the outcome of the allegations has been resolved.
For the avoidance of doubt, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ remains nominated in the Outstanding British Film category, and the other individuals named as candidates in respect of the film remain nominees.
BAFTA believes everyone has the right to a fulfilling career in a safe, professional working environment, and it will continue to collaborate with the film, games and television industries to achieve this.
BAFTA will make no further statement on this matter during the period of suspension.