BAFTA has suspended Bryan Singer’s nomination for the film “Bohemian Rhapsody” in the wake of sexual assault allegations.
The film’s director had been named in the Outstanding Outstanding British Film category but the academy said his nomination has been suspended “effective immediately”.
It comes after a report in the in The Atlantic, emerged alleging that Singer sexually assaulted four men while they were underage years ago.
Singer has denied the allegations and called them a “homophobic smear”.
BAFTA clarified in a statement that Singer’s suspension was over “very serious allegations” of sexual abuse.
“In light of recent very serious allegations, BAFTA has informed Bryan Singer that his nomination for Bohemian Rhapsody has been suspended, effective immediately,” reads the BAFTA press release.
“BAFTA considers the alleged behaviour completely unacceptable and incompatible with its values. This has led to Mr Singer’s suspended nomination”.
The academy, in its decision to suspend his nomination, said that they recognise Singer has denied the allegations. But, his suspension will remain in place pending an investigation.
“BAFTA notes Mr Singer’s denial of the allegations. The suspension of his nomination will, therefore, remain in place until the outcome of the allegations has been resolved.”
The statement said that Bohemian Rhapsody remains nominated in the outstanding British film category, and the other individuals’ named remain nominees.
“BAFTA believes everyone has the right to a fulfilling career in a safe, professional working environment, and it will continue to collaborate with the film, games and television industries to achieve this,” it continued.
“BAFTA will make no further statement on this matter during the period of suspension.”
Last month, Bohemian Rhapsody was removed as a nominee at the GLAAD Media Awards ceremony following the allegations against him.
The 2019 BAFTA Film Awards are scheduled to take place on February 10 in London’s Royal Albert Hall.
© 2019 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
Support GCN
GCN has been a vital, free-of-charge information service for Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community since 1988.
During this global COVID pandemic, we like many other organisations have been impacted greatly in the way we can do business and produce. This means a temporary pause to our print publication and live events and so now more than ever we need your help to continue providing this community resource digitally.
GCN is a registered charity with a not-for-profit business model and we need your support. If you value having an independent LGBTQ+ media in Ireland, you can help from as little as €1.99 per month. Support Ireland’s free, independent LGBTQ+ media.
comments. Please sign in to comment.