The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has confirmed that it will not be introducing gender-neutral categories in its awards shows, opting to maintain its tradition of separate male and female acting categories.
This decision means that performers will still need to choose between competing in either the Best Actor or Best Actress category.
Challenges Faced by Non-Binary Performers
The continuation of gendered categories poses challenges for non-binary performers, such as Emma Corrin, Bella Ramsey, and Emma D’Arcy, who have been compelled to select either the Best Actor or Best Actress category in past BAFTA ceremonies.
These individuals do not identify strictly as male or female, making the existing categories a difficult fit for their identities.
Ongoing Discussions and Decisions
Since 2022, BAFTA has engaged in what it describes as “proactive and thoughtful consultation” regarding the possibility of gender-neutral categories.
In 2023, the organization’s chief executive mentioned that this issue was “constantly under review.” However, despite these ongoing discussions, BAFTA has decided to retain the traditional gendered structure of its acting awards.
New Guidelines and Future Ceremonies
The Daily Mail recently reported that new guidelines from BAFTA require film producers to “confirm the gender/gender identity of each candidate for nomination” ahead of the 2024 ceremony.
This reaffirmation signals that the 2025 BAFTA ceremony will also see acting awards divided into separate male and female categories.
Broader Industry Trends Towards Inclusivity
While BAFTA has chosen to maintain gender-specific categories, other parts of the entertainment industry are moving towards inclusivity through gender-neutral awards.
In 2023, the BRIT Awards eliminated gendered categories, replacing British Female Solo Artist and British Male Solo Artist with the unified Artist of the Year and International Artist of the Year categories.
This change aimed to honor artists purely for their work, independent of gender identity, after Sam Smith, who identifies as non-binary, was excluded from gendered categories in 2022.
Similarly, the Academy Awards has begun to explore the idea of gender-neutral categories. In a statement to Variety, Academy CEO Bill Kramer shared that discussions are underway with their awards, membership, equity, and inclusion committees, along with the Board of Governors.
These conversations are still in the early stages, with the Academy investigating how such changes might be implemented in the future.
Conclusion
While the industry as a whole is grappling with the shift towards gender inclusivity, BAFTA’s decision to retain gender-specific categories highlights the complexity and varying pace of change within major awards organizations.
As the debate continues, the landscape of awards shows may evolve, but for now, BAFTA’s acting awards will remain divided by gender.