BAFTA Maintains Gendered Acting Categories

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has announced it will not establish gender-neutral categories for its awards, requiring nominees to choose between 'actor' or 'actress' categories. This decision, following two years of debate and consultations, has been met with backlash from non-binary performers like Emma Corrin, Emma D'Arcy, and Bella Ramsey, who now face the dilemma of fitting into traditional categories. BAFTA's updated guidelines state that film producers must confirm the gender identity of nominees, while allowing winners to use the term 'performer' on their awards if they choose. Critics argue that this refusal undermines the push for inclusivity in the industry, especially as other awards like the Brit Awards have successfully moved to gender-neutral categories. The issue raises ongoing questions about representation and acknowledgment in award ceremonies, further spotlighted by conversations in other organizations like the Oscars and Tonys, which have also retained gendered categories despite discussions on inclusivity. The move has sparked significant debate on social media, with many expressing disappointment at BAFTA's decision.