With $833 million in the bank and a Golden Globe to its name, Bohemian Rhapsody really ought to have been a resounding success story.
And yet, the disturbing accusations leveled against the film’s former director, Bryan Singer, has cast a dark cloud over the Freddie Mercury biopic, from which there is no escape. Case in point: following in the footsteps of the GLAAD awards, BAFTA has officially suspended Singer from his nomination, effective immediately.
Citing the “very serious allegations” that have surfaced in recent weeks (h/t The Atlantic), the British charity has temporarily removed Bryan Singer’s name from the docket, before indicating that the suspension will remain in place “until the outcome of the allegations has been resolved.” Whenever that may be.
In light of recent very serious allegations, BAFTA has informed Bryan Singer that his nomination for ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ has been suspended, effective immediately. BAFTA considers the alleged behavior completely unacceptable and incompatible with its values. This has led to Mr. Singer’s suspended nomination. BAFTA notes Mr. Singer’s denial of the allegations. The suspension of his nomination will therefore remain in place until the outcome of the allegations has been resolved.
To their credit, 20th Century Fox accepted the decision without question, writing: “We fully support BAFTA’s decision.” There is, however, a big caveat in this suspension; voting had already closed by the time BAFTA made its announcement, meaning the removal of Bryan Singer won’t affect Bohemian Rhapsody and its chances of success – the Freddie Mercury feature is nominated for seven awards, including Best Leading Actor (Rami Malek) and Outstanding British Film.
The ceremony begins in earnest this Sunday, February 10th, when you’ll be able to watch industry legend Joanna Lumley doll out the awards from 9 pm GMT.