Has Kate Middleton Been ‘Banned’ From The BAFTAs?

kate middleton spectre premiere

by Katie Rosseinsky |
Published on

Ahead of next month's BAFTAs, it's been claimed by one newspaper that Kate Middleton isn't welcome at the ceremony - because she might 'distract' from the Hollywood stars in attendance.

In an article published in The Sun on Tuesday, the paper claimed that BAFTA bosses didn't want the Duchess of Cambridge to attend the awards ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall, in case she took the attention away from the nominated stars.

An 'insider' told the paper that William, who has been President of BAFTA since 2010, has apparently 'faced criticism from the film industry for missing the BAFTAs the last two years, despite being [the] President.'

'As a result of that feedback, he made it clear he wants to go this year and even bring Kate. It would be a real show of his commitment towards BAFTA and make headlines around the world.'

kate middleton bafta
Kate Middleton and Prince William attend a BAFTA party in Los Angeles ©Getty Images

'But then it was expressed by senior staff within BAFTA that Kate's attendance will totally distract from all the film stars there.' Hmm.

Dazzling as the Duchess certainly is, however, we can't help but question this 'source,' and unsurprisingly, BAFTA have been quick to quash such a rumour. In a statement, the organisation revealed that it is 'completely untrue that BAFTA has suggested that our president attend on his own,' adding that they 'would be delighted to welcome Their Royal Highnesses any year that they are able to attend.'

Since becoming president in 2010, William has twice been a guest at the awards ceremony, though the Duchess has never accompanied him.

This year's BAFTAs will take place on February 12th, with Emma Stone, Amy Adams, Ryan Gosling and Meryl Streep amongst the nominated stars.

READ MORE: Meet This Year's BAFTA Rising Star Nominees

READ MORE: BAFTA Nominee Anya Taylor Joy: 'I Still Can't Believe I'm An Actor'

READ MORE: BAFTA Nominations: La La Land Leads The Race

Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us