The English film director and producer was honoured with a fellowship for his outstanding contribution to film and television at the 71st BAFTA Awards.
However, his acceptance speech didn’t go quite to plan when he appeared to swear at a distracted audience member.
The 80-year-old began his speech by saying: “It’s been 40-years in this business and this is the first time they’ve ever given me anything so I’m not going to go quietly.
He then went on to thank Prince William, who presented him with the trophy, and BAFTA.
During his emotional speech, he spoke about his time at school and how he was at the bottom of his class.
But as he spoke about his schooling experience an audience member seemed to draw his attention.
Turning to the individual, he barked: “Are you bored? S**t, are you alright?”
Despite his comments making the crowd giggle, he seemed aware of the mishap and turned to Prince William apologetically.
He later apologised to Prince William directly for using the word “a***” to describe one of his on-set experiences during the speech.
The film producer also used his time on stage to praise teachers for their tremendous work, adding: “It’s extraordinary what a teacher can do.
“Drawing the student out, igniting independence and encouraging them to design their own future, rather than waiting for something to happen.
“Teaching is the most important of all professions. Sort that out and social problems will get sorted out.”
Sir Ridley, who has worked in the film-making industry for 40-years, was elated to have received the prestigious award.
He follows in the footsteps of previous recipients including Steven Spielberg, Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, Sean Connery and Elizabeth Taylor.
In 1995, Sir Ridley and his brother Tony received a BAFTA for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema and in 2003 he was knighted for his services to the British film industry.
The BAFTAS 2018 is available to watch on the BBC iPlayer now.
