In a surprising turn of events, Kensington Palace has officially announced that Princess Catherine and Prince William will not be attending the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTAs) this Sunday, February 16th.
This news has left royal enthusiasts disappointed, as many were eagerly anticipating the couple’s return to the glamorous event.
The absence of Princess Catherine, often regarded as the star of the red carpet, casts a shadow over this year’s festivities.
Prince William, who has held the prestigious title of BAFTA President since 2010, will instead participate in a video segment for the awards and is scheduled to visit the London Screen Academy on Wednesday.
Typically, the Prince and Princess light up the red carpet together, but this year, fans will have to settle for a virtual appearance from William.
Their last joint appearance at the BAFTAs was in 2023, where they captivated the audience with their charm and poise.
Last year, the royal couple made headlines with their stunning presence, but circumstances changed when Catherine had to sit out the following ceremony due to recent abdominal surgery.
Soon after, she publicly shared her cancer diagnosis, which led to her stepping back from public engagements.
At the 2024 BAFTAs, William expressed his sorrow over Catherine’s absence, telling Elaine Burdell, Chief Executive of the Southbank Centre, “I’m sorry Catherine’s not here.
She does love the BAFTAs.”
His heartfelt acknowledgment highlighted just how much the event means to her.
While the couple has opted out of the BAFTAs in the past—such as in 2021 after the death of Prince Philip and in 2022 due to scheduling issues—this year’s decision feels particularly significant.
With Catherine still recovering, many had hoped that this event would mark a triumphant return for her in 2025.
Her previous appearances at the BAFTAs have become legendary, further solidifying her reputation as a fashion icon.
Catherine made her BAFTA debut in 2017, stealing the spotlight in a bespoke floral print gown by Alexander McQueen that featured an elegant off-the-shoulder design and a cascading skirt.
The following year, she turned heads again in a stunning dark green Jenny Packham gown with black accents, making a subtle statement in support of the Time’s Up movement while other stars donned black.
In 2019, she wowed attendees in a white asymmetrical dress from Alexander McQueen, a look that would later be reimagined for one of her most memorable appearances.
The 2020 ceremony showcased her commitment to sustainable fashion as she recycled a golden-white gown she first wore in Malaysia back in 2012.
This choice aligned beautifully with the BAFTAs’ push for eco-consciousness in style.
However, it was during the 2023 awards that Catherine truly captured hearts, appearing in a revamped version of her 2019 gown, now adorned with a dramatic sweep of white chiffon at the shoulder.
She paired this breathtaking outfit with oversized rose gold floral earrings from Zara and luxurious black velvet opera gloves, exuding a blend of elegance and contemporary flair.
Genevieve James, creative director at Royal Glove Supplier Cornelia James, noted the transformative power of opera gloves, stating, “They turn any event into an occasion and a dress into a statement.”
With such a rich history of fashion excellence at the BAFTAs, fans were left yearning to see what Catherine would showcase next.
Yet, with this latest announcement from Kensington Palace, it appears that admirers will have to wait a little longer for another unforgettable royal appearance.
As supporters rally around the Princess of Wales during her recovery, there remains a glimmer of hope that she will soon return to the dazzling events she adores.
For now, royal watchers can only look back fondly on her spectacular moments at the BAFTAs, eagerly anticipating the day she steps onto the red carpet once more, ready to dazzle and inspire.