Royals

Prince William and Kate will attend the BAFTAs

We can’t WAIT to see the pictures!
Prince William, Duchess Kate

After weeks of speculation, Kensington Palace has finally confirmed that the much-loved Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will attend the iconic awards ceremony next month.

The appearance will be 35-year-old Kate’s first time at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts awards – the British equivalent of the Oscars – which is set to take place at the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday, February 12.

Prince William, 34, who also happens to be President of the BAFTA awards, has previously attended the event.

However, he has faced harsh criticism for failing to attend the previous two years.

The Prince will also play a role in the goings on of the event by presenting the BAFTA Fellowship – a lifetime achievement award recognising an individual’s outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, television or games.

The award, which is the highest accolade the Academy can bestow, counts the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Caine, and Helen Mirren among its past recipients.

Earlier this month, it was rumoured that Wills had been instructed by senior staff within the BAFTA committee to attend the event solo, over concerns that his gorgeous wife, Duchess Kate, may “totally distract” from other a-list stars, such as Emily Blunt and Naomie Harris.

The duo have previously attended the inaugural BAFTA Brits to Watch event in Los Angeles.

The couple attended the event as part of their Royal tour in California, showing their support of British creative talent and BAFTA’s year-round work.

All eyes will be on Kate as she attends the upcoming award ceremony – we can’t wait to see what she chooses to wear!

Speaking with The Sun, a BAFTA insider revealed: “William has faced serious criticism from the film industry for missing the BAFTAs the last two years, despite being our 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 create headlines around the world.”

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

Wills and Kate caused quite the scene when they attended the premiere of James Bond film, Spectre.

With looks like these it’s not hard to see why senior staff thought she might outshine other a-listers!

A second BAFTA source said: “Most people think William will end up getting his way by bringing Kate but it’s created awkwardness because her attendance shouldn’t have been in question.”

BAFTA later released a statement, dismissing rumours of the awkward row as “nonsense.”

A spokesman said: “For clarity – this is nonsense. As we confirmed last night it’s completely untrue that BAFTA has suggested that our President attend on his own.”

“We would be delighted to welcome Their Royal Highnesses any year that they are able to attend.”

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