Steve McQueen says Baftas will have ‘no credibility’ if they continue to ignore diversity

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Steve McQueen, the director of 12 Years a Slave and Widows, has warned that the Baftas will become obsolete if they continue to ignore diverse talent. “Because if the Baftas are not supporting British talent, if you’re not supporting the people who are making headway in the industry, then I don’t understand what you are there for.” He added, “Unless the Baftas wants to be like the Grammys, which is of no interest to anyone, and has no credibility at all, then they should continue on this path. Fact.” Last week, the Baftas earned criticism after failing to recognise non-white actors who have flourished at a number of awards ceremonies this year, including Awkwafina, Cynthia Erivo and Eddie Murphy. Stars including Antonio Banderas and Jennifer Lopez were also snubbed, along with female filmmakers including Greta Gerwig, Lulu Wang, Marielle Heller and Joanna Hogg.