The BAFTAs ceremony on Sunday faced online backlash due to the inadvertent omission of Matthew Perry from the In Memoriam segment. The beloved actor, known for his role in “Friends” and his work in movies like “17 Again” and “The Whole Nine Yards,” passed away in October 2023 at the age of 54.
After fans expressed their disappointment on social media over the Academy's oversight, BAFTA responded by assuring that Perry would be recognized in the TV Awards ceremony later in the year. They also directed viewers to an online tribute dedicated to the late actor.
It is noteworthy that Matthew Perry was honored during the 2023 Emmy Awards' In Memoriam segment, a tribute that brought a sense of closure to many fans mourning his passing. Surprisingly, his “Friends” co-stars were notably absent from the BAFTAs despite Perry's omission from the tribute, with producers citing their grieving process and the sensitivity of the situation as reasons for not extending an invite to them.
The handling of Matthew Perry's absence at the BAFTAs and the subsequent response from the Academy shed light on the complexities of recognizing and honoring the legacy of beloved actors posthumously. The importance of paying respects in a timely and thoughtful manner was underscored by the differing approaches taken by various award ceremonies.
As fans and industry figures navigate the delicate balance of celebrating the lives of departed talents while respecting the wishes of those closest to them, it serves as a reminder of the enduring impact and influence that artists like Matthew Perry have on their audiences.
