The 2024 BAFTA Awards, hosted by the charismatic David Tennant, took an unexpected turn as he unleashed a scathing monologue targeting Meghan Markle, the former actress and Duchess of Sussex.
Markle, who opted out of attending the event for the second consecutive year, became the focal point of Tennant’s blistering remarks.
Referencing her recent headline-making interview with Oprah Winfrey, where she unveiled allegations of racism and mistreatment within the royal family, Tennant spared no punches in labeling Markle as a disgrace and a drama queen.
He even quipped about her acting career, suggesting that marrying into royalty was a strategic move due to its lackluster trajectory.
Tennant’s comedic jabs were met with a mix of laughter and applause from the audience, creating a ripple effect of both amusement and controversy among Markle’s supporters and fans.
The prestigious BAFTA Awards, recognizing excellence in British film and television, unfolded at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London amidst a star-studded attendance.
Notable personalities such as Fantasia Barrino, Paul Giamatti, and Rebel Wilson graced the occasion, with Wilson also taking a swipe at Markle and Prince Harry during her presentation of the Outstanding British Film category.
While Prince William, the President of BAFTA, graced the event, his wife Princess Kate was notably absent due to her recovery from abdominal surgery.
However, the absence that garnered significant attention was that of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have been residing in Canada following their controversial decision to step back from their royal duties last year.
The couple’s rift with the royal family and the British public escalated post their explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey, where Markle divulged instances of racism and mental health struggles within the palace.
In a divided response to Markle’s revelations, some empathized with her ordeal, while others accused her of deceit and manipulation.
Among the dissenting voices was David Tennant, the Scottish actor and comedian renowned for his roles in Doctor Who, Broadchurch, and Good Omens, who fearlessly addressed Markle during his hosting stint at the BAFTA Awards.
Tennant’s opening speech set the tone for the evening, blending humor with pointed criticism towards Markle’s actions and impact on the royal family.
As Tennant humorously navigated through his monologue, likening the drama surrounding Harry and Meghan to a riveting movie plot, his sharp words resonated with the audience, eliciting reactions ranging from amusement to disapproval.
While his jests drew laughter and applause, sparking a lively atmosphere, a segment of viewers and critics voiced their discontent on social media, condemning Tennant’s mockery as sexist, racist, and insensitive to Markle’s struggles.
Conversely, defenders of Markle and Prince Harry hailed their candor and bravery in exposing the alleged injustices within the monarchy.
The evening at the BAFTA Awards unfolded as a blend of glamour, entertainment, and controversy, with Tennant’s bold commentary adding an unexpected twist to the prestigious event.
Amidst the glitz and accolades, the underlying tensions and diverging perspectives regarding the royal couple’s narrative underscored the complex dynamics at play within the realm of British royalty and public perception.