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Although Prince William did not attend in person, his message reached the audience through a specially recorded video. This was no last-minute decision. The recording was thoughtfully produced during his earlier visit to Bad Wolf Studios in Cardiff, one of the leading names in Welsh television production. This foresight and attention to detail underline just how seriously the prince takes his role — and his desire to honor the strong historical and cultural bond between the royal family and Wales.
In keeping with that sentiment, Kensington Palace released an official statement in both English and Welsh — a rare and symbolic gesture that deeply resonated across the nation. Far from a mere formality, this bilingual message served as a tribute to the Welsh people, their language, and their enduring heritage. It reinforced William and Catherine’s commitment to inclusivity and their wish to strengthen their ties to the nation they represent as its royal couple.
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Prince William’s brief yet heartfelt message read: “Good luck to all the nominees at tonight’s BAFTA Awards.” Simple, sincere, and uplifting, it carried extra resonance when echoed in Welsh — “Pob lwc i’r enwebeion i gyd heno.” This small but meaningful bilingual touch was widely praised, showcasing not only courtesy but genuine cultural respect.
The ceremony itself was a glittering celebration of Welsh creativity. The evening honored the exceptional achievements of filmmakers, actors, and television professionals whose talent continues to shape the nation’s artistic identity. Seventeen competitive awards were presented across categories ranging from directing and acting to cinematography and writing, with two additional special honors recognizing lifetime contributions to the Welsh screen industry.
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The event was hosted by the popular Welsh television presenter, Aimee Evans, whose wit and charm guided the audience through an evening filled with anticipation and applause. Among the night’s standout winners was Lost Boys and Fairies, a profoundly moving production that swept five awards, cementing its place as one of Wales’s most remarkable recent works. Other notable winners included Golden Cobra and Mr. Burton, each earning two awards — a testament to the diversity and vitality of Welsh storytelling.
These achievements, coupled with Prince William’s message, cast a spotlight on Wales as a thriving hub of creativity — a land where ancient heritage meets modern imagination.
This official update also followed earlier footage released by Kensington Palace, offering the public a rare glimpse into the prince’s visit to Bad Wolf Studios. Behind-the-scenes images showed him recording his address and engaging with Welsh creatives — evidence of his hands-on commitment as BAFTA President. It’s a reminder that royal patronage today is more than ceremonial; it is deeply participatory, bridging tradition with the future.
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In his recorded remarks, Prince William eloquently described the screen arts as “a vital part of our cultural landscape, enriching the UK’s storytelling heritage while fueling our economy.” His words reflected both appreciation and insight — acknowledging that film and television not only entertain but preserve identity, inspire innovation, and drive opportunity.
He then addressed one of the most pressing issues in the creative world: the challenge of access. “While talent is everywhere,” he observed, “opportunity is not.” With this, he drew attention to BAFTA’s bursary programs — initiatives designed to nurture young artists by removing financial and educational barriers that too often hinder new voices from breaking through.
Prince William emphasized that such programs offer more than money. They provide tools, mentorship, and encouragement — the essential stepping stones for emerging talent. Participants often gain access to professional studios, training workshops led by industry experts, and one-to-one mentorship with established creators. Some even receive financial support for tuition or independent projects. Through these opportunities, BAFTA ensures that creativity thrives not just in London or Cardiff, but in every corner of the United Kingdom.
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In the closing portion of his message, Prince William expressed his gratitude to BAFTA’s vital partners: “As President of BAFTA, I’d like to thank Film Cymru Wales, Screen Alliance Wales, and all those who so generously support the bursary program.” This acknowledgment was more than courtesy — it was recognition of the collective effort behind Britain’s creative success. Film Cymru Wales and Screen Alliance Wales, in particular, play pivotal roles in nurturing Welsh film and television, ensuring that the next generation of storytellers has both guidance and opportunity.
His appreciation also extended to the countless individuals and organizations whose generosity fuels these programs — donors whose belief in young talent transforms dreams into careers.
Prince William concluded his remarks with characteristic warmth, congratulating all the BAFTA Cymru winners and wishing everyone an enjoyable evening. It was a graceful end to a speech that perfectly combined humility, encouragement, and vision.
This moment, though modest in scale, highlights the royal family’s continuing commitment to the arts and their thoughtful relationship with Wales. Through symbolic gestures — a bilingual message, a recorded address from a local studio, and genuine advocacy for young talent — the Prince and Princess of Wales demonstrated how modern royalty can use influence to uplift creativity and culture.
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