Bafta Puts Special Prizes On Hold After Noel Clarke Claims

The Bafta TV Awards will not be giving out any special individual prizes for the first time at Sunday’s ceremony.

It comes after Bafta was criticised for giving Noel Clarke an outstanding contribution award in April despite being aware of sexual harassment claims against the actor – which he denies.

Any awards “in the gift” of the organisation – those not voted for by an industry panel – are now on hold.

Bafta told members last week it was now reviewing its selection protocols.

“We have recently announced that we are conducting a review of the processes governing awards that are in the gift of the academy, so we have temporarily paused the special awards and fellowships and they will not feature in this Sunday’s ceremony,” a Bafta spokeswoman said on Tuesday.

Kidulthood and Doctor Who actor Mr Clarke was given the outstanding British contribution to cinema prize at a ceremony on 10 April, but was suspended by Bafta later that month over harassment claims.

Mr Clarke has said he is sorry if his past behaviour had made anyone feel uncomfortable, but he has “vehemently” denied any sexual misconduct or wrongdoing.