JOAQUIN PHOENIX
Written by Atu on February 3, 2020
This past Sunday while most were enjoying togetherness with friends and family on Super Bowl Sunday, another celebration was going on in the entertainment world. It was the BAFTA Awards ceremony.
Joaquin Phoenix had been awarded Best Actor for his role in Joker. Then, an obviously chilling moment pierced through the audience who seemed to all be surprised by the words in Phoenix’s acceptance speech.
“I feel very honored and privileged to be here tonight. BAFTA’s have always been very supportive of my career and I’m deeply appreciative. But, I have to say that I also feel conflicted because so many of my fellow actors still have that same privilege. I think that we send a very clear message to people of color that you’re not welcome here…”
There was plenty more he had to say throughout his speech on systemic racism, which received praise from other industry elites as well.
Here’s his speech in its entirety.
