Bernard Cribbins was honoured at the 2023 BAFTA Television awards on Sunday, after stars and fans of the actor were unhappy that he was previously snubbed at the Film awards.
The actor was included in the ‘in memoriam’ segment, alongside comedian and presenter Paul O’Grady and Strictly Come Dancing judge, Len Goodman, who both passed away in March aged 67.
The academy also paid tribute to other television stars, including Jerry Springer, host of the eponymous American talk show who passed away last month, the comedian Barry Humphries who was known for his act Dame Edna Everage, Hi-De-Hi! Actress Ruth Madoc and Emmerdale actor, Dale Meeks.
Bernard passed away in July 2022 at the age of 93. The popular voice, film and TV actor was well-known for his appearances on children’s shows before he rebooted his career with a stint on Doctor Who. His career spanned over seven decades.
So many viewers of the Film award show were unhappy when he was not included during the ceremony, which was broadcast in February.
One fan of the actor took to Twitter to point out the lack of mention for Bernard's career, writing: “Was rather astonished to not see Bernard Cribbins being honoured. A national treasure held dear by the majority of the nation! Limited time isn't a justified response, I'm sorry.”
BAFTA replied to this tweet, writing: “With limited time in our broadcast it isn't possible to honour all those who have sadly passed away.
“Bernard features in our online records… and given his influential work in TV, he will be considered for inclusion in the next Television Awards broadcast”.
Television scriptwriter, Russell T Davies, shared a screenshot of BAFTAs response to his Instagram and wrote: “It's fair enough to remember Bernard Cribbins at the TV @bafta, not the film. To say he's being 'considered' is the work of an idiot”.
The former Doctor Who and Torchwood star John Barrowman agreed, writing: “Well said Russell. Someone needs/needed to be schooled. CONSIDERED? That's OUTRAGEOUS!! Jb”.
Gaby Roslin also replied on Russell's Instagram post, writing: “Well said. What about his films? He was a true star, a wonderful actor and a joy and was so dearly loved”.
BAFTA confirmed Bernard will be memorialised, telling MailOnline : “Bernard Cribbins will be remembered in our upcoming BAFTA Television Awards ceremony broadcast in May".
