When the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) said that film makers would have to check the gender identity of nominees, it caused a lot of controversy. This decision has big effects on nonbinary performers, who don’t always fit into standard gender roles.
Some people in the business world don’t like that BAFTA didn’t add gender-neutral categories like the Brit Awards did. Emma Corrin, an actress who uses they/them pronouns and is nonbinary, has been a strong voice for making award shows more welcoming. He thinks the current categories are “not inclusive enough” and has asked for gender-neutral categories to be added so that all performers feel “acknowledged and represented.”
It’s not just BAFTA that’s having a discussion about gender-neutral categories. The Oscars and Tonys have also thought about this problem and have decided to keep their standard “Best Actress” and “Best Actor” categories. But the conversation shows how important it is for the entertainment business to have representation and acceptance.
Some people say it’s important to recognise and honour all identities, but others, like Adele, are proud of their gender identity and would rather fit into traditional categories. As time goes on, it’s clear that BAFTA’s choice has started a conversation that needs to happen about identity, acceptance, and representation.
The question still stands: should award shows rethink their standard gender-based categories to include performers who aren’t binary? This question will probably have an answer that depends on how willing the business is to change and adapt.
