The Prince and Princess of Wales made a surprise appearance at the BAFTA Film Awards on Saturday evening, delighting guests and viewers. Their presence marked a full-circle moment involving Paddington Bear, the beloved fictional character who shared a memorable sketch with the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.
Prince William, who serves as president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, earlier confessed that seeing the sea of Paddington tributes left outside royal residences after the Queen's death left him 'choked up'. Speaking during a visit to Windsor in September 2022, he reflected on how public mourning had affected him.
'There are certain moments that catch you out. You are prepared for all but certain moments catch you out,' he said at the time. 'It is the things you don't expect that get to you.' He lightened the mood by joking about a 'competition' between Paddington and the late Queen's corgis.
Paddington was confirmed as a special guest and presenter at this year's ceremony, which was hosted by Alan Cumming and broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer. The evening celebrated the best in British and global cinema, with a star-studded lineup of presenters including Aimee Lou Wood, Stormzy, and Gillian Anderson.
William and Kate's appearance on the red carpet came amid speculation about whether they would attend. The Prince of Wales has a long-standing connection to BAFTA in his role as president, and his emotional link to Paddington added a poignant touch to the event.
