Featured Image Credit: PA Images / Alamy / Warner Bros
Topics: TV and Film, UK News, BAFTAs
Dominic Smithers
Topics: TV and Film, UK News, BAFTAs
Bafta has explained why Robbie Coltrane was not mentioned in its 'In memory of' section at this year's awards.
The country's biggest television stars packed into the Royal Festival Hall in London last night (14 May) for the annual bash.
But as well as celebrating the best TV has had to offer over the last 12 months, it also took a moment to remember those actors and entertainers who are no longer with us.
Among those who got a mention during the awards ceremony were Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman, and comedians Paul O’Grady and Barry Humphries.
Advert
However, some viewers were confused as to why the late Harry Potter actor - who passed away last October - wasn't included.
"Robbie Coltrane won three BAFTAs concurrently for his TV work, setting a record yet to be broken," wrote one person. "Might have been worth mentioning his passing during #Baftas2023."
Another complained: "Well done @bafta on forgetting Robbie Coltrane in the remembrance section of the TV BAFTAs."
"@BAFTA what about Robbie Coltrane in your obituaries? Great actor which seems forgotten about tonight," asked a third.
Advert
While another added: "@bafta no recognition for Robbie Coltrane, he died in October and is one of Britain’s most successful actors."
Well, following the huge backlash online, Bafta has now come out and explained exactly why Coltrane wasn't mentioned, despite having an incredibly successful television career.
Responding to viewers, a spokesperson for the association said: "Robbie Coltrane was remembered at this year’s Film Awards ceremony."
Coltrane's agent Belinda Wright confirmed the tragic news last year that he had sadly passed away.
In a statement, she shared the sad news: “My client and friend Robbie Coltrane OBE passed away on Friday October 14.
Advert
"Robbie was a unique talent, sharing the Guinness Book of Records’ Award for winning three consecutive Best Actor Baftas for his portrayal of Fitz in Granada TV’s series Cracker in 1994, 1995 and 1996 with Sir Michael Gambon.
“He will probably be best remembered for decades to come as Hagrid in the Harry Potter films, a role which brought joy to children and adults alike all over the world, prompting a stream of fan letters every week for over 20 years.
“James Bond fans write too to applaud his role in GoldenEye and The World Is Not Enough."
Belinda then shared a personal tribute to the star, adding: “For me personally, I shall remember him as an abidingly loyal client.
Advert
"As well as being a wonderful actor, he was forensically intelligent, brilliantly witty and after 40 years of being proud to be called his agent, I shall miss him."