The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has announced its intention to honor the late actor Matthew Perry at its Television Awards following criticism over his exclusion from the In Memoriam segment during the recent Film Awards ceremony.
Perry, renowned for his portrayal of Chandler Bing in the beloved sitcom “Friends,” will be remembered at the Television Awards scheduled for May 2024.
Rectifying the Omission
Perry’s notable absence from the In Memoriam segment at the Film Awards, which featured tributes to various industry luminaries, including Jane Birkin, Shirley Anne Field, Richard Roundtree, Michael Gambon, Tom Wilkinson, and Carl Weathers, fans and viewers expressed disappointment and surprise.
Perry’s versatile career extended beyond television, with notable roles in popular films like ‘Fools Rush In’ alongside Salma Hayek and ‘The Whole Nine Yards’ with Bruce Willis.
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Fans Call for BAFTA Film Awards Recognition
On social media platforms, users voiced their discontent with Perry’s exclusion, highlighting his contributions to both television and film. Some lamented the oversight, emphasizing Perry’s significance as both a TV and movie actor.
Matthew Perry passed away in October at the age of 54, following an incident where he was found unresponsive in a hot tub at his Southern California residence. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed that Perry died from the acute effects of ketamine.
While Perry was not honored in the In Memoriam segment at the BAFTA Film Awards, he received a heartfelt tribute earlier this year at the Emmys. During the ceremony, Charlie Puth and The War and Treaty duo delivered an emotional rendition of the “Friends” theme song, accompanied by a photo of Perry on screen.
The decision to recognize Matthew Perry at the BAFTA Television Awards underscores a desire to celebrate his multifaceted contributions to the entertainment industry, acknowledging his impact on both television and film.
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