BAFTAs is one of the most prestigious events in the award season calendar and fans of the big screen tune in on the BBC to watch the pre-recorded ceremony each year. This year, the ceremony was hosted by chat show host and comedian Graham Norton, 56, who got the show off to a light-hearted start by giving a speech full of jokes. Despite the attempts to keep the audience’s attention both at home and inside the Royal Albert Hall, those who weren’t present at the venue didn’t seem too happy and ended up “switching over.”
The comedian took on the role from Joanna Lumley, 73, who had overseen proceedings of the ceremony for the past two years.
However, the chat show’s jokes during the course of the coverage failed to make an impression with viewers and they took action over their dismay.
Taking to Twitter, viewers didn’t hold back with what they thought about the latest coverage of the filming awards ceremony.
One posted on the social media platform: “Do people actually watch these award shows and enjoy them? Just had the #BAFTAs on in the background and it was painful! Had to turn over.”
“I’m honoured to be following in the fabulous footsteps of Stephen Fry and Joanna Lumley,” he continued.
Some of the guests joining Graham in the Royal Albert Hall this evening included royalty, with Prince William, 37, and his wife Kate Middleton, 38, in attendance.
Sir Ian McKellan, 80, Sex Education star Gillian Anderson, 51, and Game Of Thrones actress Emilia Clarke, 33, were among those celebrities handing out award.
Kicking off the night was the award for Outstanding British Film, which was won by the team behind highly acclaimed war film, 1917.
Other big winners of the night included the Best Leading Actor gong going to Joaquin Phoenix, 45, for his starring role in Joker and Best Leading Actress awarded to Renee Zellweger, 50, for her role as Judy Garland in biopic, Judy.
Although the ceremony was focused on the world of film, the BAFTA television awards will air later this year.
TV fans won’t be able to watch the coverage until April 26, with the nominations being announced March 26.
It’s yet to be revealed who will host the ceremony, but Graham has hosted the event for the small screen awards in the past.
