New Delhi: Matthew Perry’s supporters swiftly criticized the 2024 British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) for overlooking the actor in its In Memoriam segment. Fans expressed disappointment as Perry was absent from the tribute, set to a special rendition of Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” performed by Hannah Waddingham from Ted Lasso.
BAFTA, facing backlash not just for excluding ‘Barbie’, became a talking point due to the omission of the ‘Friends’ actor from the tribute. Displeased fans voiced their objections on social media and questioned the organization for the oversight. One user said, “You can’t make this stuff up.” “#Matthewperry why wasn’t he mentioned in the BAFTA (sic)?” Another fan commented, “#BAFTA what happened to Matthew Perry in your memoriam. I know he’s famous for TV Friends, but he did films too – shocking mistake (sic).”
BAFTA responded to the criticism and provided a statement about Matthew Perry’s absence. A spokesperson informed PEOPLE, “I can confirm Matthew Perry will be remembered in our forthcoming BAFTA Television Awards.”
According to PEOPLE, the organization reiterated its statement on social media and stated, “Matthew Perry will be remembered in this year’s TV Awards ceremony (sic).”
Matthew Perry, known for portraying Chandler Bing in ‘Friends’, passed away on October 28 in an apparent drowning incident. His sudden death left his friends, family, and the world in sorrow. The actor was laid to rest in early November, with the funeral reportedly attended by the ‘Friends’ cast, his family, and close friends.
Several weeks after his demise, his ‘Friends’ co-stars Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, and Lisa Kudrow honored their dear friend Matthew Perry on their respective social media platforms with throwback photos and heartfelt posts.