Prince William marked the 20th anniversary of BAFTA's Rising Star Award with a pre-recorded video message at this year's Film Awards ceremony.
The Prince of Wales, who serves as President of BAFTA, appeared in a special video package introducing two past winners of the award to present this year's honour.
The message was recorded during his recent visit to the London Screen Academy, as the royal missed the ceremony due to a family Caribbean holiday.
In his video message, Prince William expressed his delight in celebrating the award's milestone anniversary, which is presented in honour of Mary Selway.
Prince William delivers pre-recorded speech at Baftas as royal jets to Caribbean with Princess Kate
BBC
"What a 20 years and what a line-up of exceptional talent!" the Prince said.
He added: "Since 2006 this award has not only championed the industry's rising stars but has helped to inspire the next generation of acting talent to pursue their dreams.
"The five incredibly talented people nominated tonight demonstrate a remarkable range of performances and have each captured the imagination of audiences over the last year.
"Judging by the international success of the previous nominees and winners of this award, I am certain we will be seeing much more of their work over the next 20 years and beyond."
Prince William is the President of BAFTAPAThe Prince and Princess of Wales are currently enjoying a Caribbean holiday with their three children - Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, according to reports in the Mail.
The family is joined by Kate's mother, Carole Middleton, with all members travelling together on the same flight.
This marks their second family getaway in recent months, following a New Year ski break.
GB News has contacted Kensington Palace for comment.
William and Kate have made multiple joint appearances at the Bafta ceremonies.GettyBAFTA insiders had hoped for a joint appearance from William and Kate at the ceremony, which would have marked the Princess's return to the red carpet.
The Rising Star Award, voted for by the British public, focuses on honouring young acting talent who have demonstrated exceptional talent and ambition.
Prince William recorded his message during a visit to the London Screen Academy earlier this week, highlighting the importance of nurturing emerging talent.
The Prince introduced past winners James McAvoy and Letitia Wright to present this year's award, noting both are soon to make their directorial debuts.
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The Prince of Wales operating a film camera during a visit to the London Screen Academy, to meet and shine a spotlight on the next generation of UK filmmakers and creative professionals
PA
Prince William has served as BAFTA president since 2010, attending the ceremony on his own last year.
Kensington Palace had previously confirmed that the royal couple would not attend this year's star-studded event at London's Royal Festival Hall.
The Prince's video appearance maintained his connection to the organisation despite his physical absence from the ceremony.
