The BAFTAs (British Academy Film and Television Awards) was slammed by it’s viewers on Sunday night after they “omitted” Friends star Matthew Perry during their tribute segment – leaving the organisation to make a statement in response.
Perry died on October 28, 2023 of “acute effects of ketamine” which an autopsy report concluded and left millions affected by the news.
The actor rose to stardom back in 1995 when the first episode of Friends aired and Perry debuted as his character Chandler Bing.
Not only did millions fall in love with Bing, but Perry stole the hearts of the nation with his personality and ability to take on any role.
During the BAFTAs last night, Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham performed for the ceremony’s In Memory Of Tribute which honours those in the film, game and TV industries who have died over the last year.
Some of the big names included Sir Michael Gambon, Carl Weathers, Tina Turner, Glenda Jackson, Julian Sands and Jane Birkin.
Matthew Perry found fame as Chandler Bing in the hit series Friends
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Whilst being moved by the performance, many were left scratching their heads as to why Perry was not included in the emotional tribute.
Furious, many took to their X account to express their outrage as one user noted: “BAFTA really c***ed up by not mentioning the huge emotional loss of Matthew Perry. One of the many reasons that made last night really awkward and rubbish viewing!!!”
“Perhaps the board need reminding of what Bafta stands for? The T is for television. You cannot include American Tina Turner in your #Inmemoriam section, and not include #MatthewPerry #LanceRiddick or #AndreBraugher Shameful,” another fumed.
“Matthew Perry being snubbed by the #BAFTAs is absolutely grim,” a third user commented before another added: “No tribute to Matthew Perry? #BAFTAs disrespect.”
Matthew Perry was snubbed during the BAFTAs In Memoriam segment
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A fifth claimed: “I’m sorry but where on earth was Matthew Perry in that memorial segment??? So disappointing!! #BAFTAs” (sic)
BAFTAs has since spoken out over their decision not to include Perry in their memorial section and told Variety: “Matthew Perry will be remembered in the forthcoming Bafta Television Awards in May.”
Whilst he may not have been honoured on Sunday, Perry was remembered during the In Memoriam segment of the Emmy Awards recently which left the audience and viewers in tears.
His Friends co-stars did not make an appearance despite earlier reports claiming they were going to take to the stage together to honour him.
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Matthew Perry died in October 2023
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After their absence was noted, executive producer Jeannae Rouzan-Clay told The Hollywood Reporter that his death is “still very fresh” for the cast.
“We had talked about it early on — but I can imagine, from their side, they’re mourning someone who was still very close to them,” she said.
“I can’t speak for them, but we all have to respect that they were their own family. It was probably just a little too soon.”