Actor Joaquin Phoenix has condemned “systemic racism” in the film industry, which he says denied deserving actors of color an equal chance to be recognized.
In his award acceptance speech in London, Phoenix called upon white actors to play their part in defeating racism in the industry and giving all actors a chance in future awards.
The 45-year-old won the award for Leading Actor on Sunday for his role in the film Joker at the Bafta Film Awards 2020. All five nominees were white, and similarly, all 20 nominees in the BAFTA awards’ acting categories were white.
“But I also feel conflicted,” Phoenix said after expressing his delight at winning. “So many of my fellow actors that are deserving don’t have that same privilege.
“I think we are sending a very clear message to people of colour that you’re not welcome here. That’s the message we are sending to people who have contributed so much to our medium and our industry in ways that we have benefited from.
“I don’t think anybody wants a handout or preferential treatment, although that’s what we give ourselves every year.”
Phoenix urged all actors to identify and dismantle systemic racism in the industry.
Other film and music awards, including the Oscars, Grammys and Golden Globes, have also come under scrutiny recently for their white dominance.
Other actors that scooped awards at the Bafta Film Awards 2020 include;
- Renée Zellweger (Judy) – Leading actress
- Joaquin Phoenix (Joker) – Leading actor
- Laura Dern (Marriage Story) – Supporting actress
- Brad Pitt (Once.. in Hollywood) – Supporting actor
- Sam Mendes (1917) – Director
- Micheal Ward – EE Rising Star Award
