The 2024 BAFTAs brought several unforgettable moments that had fans buzzing long after the event. From heartwarming tributes to humorous exchanges, here are some of the most viral highlights from the ceremony:
- Michael J. Fox’s Standing Ovation
One of the most emotional moments of the night was when Back to the Future star Michael J. Fox made a surprise appearance to present the Best Film award. As he entered the stage in a wheelchair, the audience gave him a heartfelt standing ovation. Fox’s legendary status in cinema was evident as host David Tennant called him a true icon, and his appearance added a deeply touching moment to the ceremony. - Hugh Grant’s Wonka-Inspired Rhymes
Hugh Grant brought humor to the night with a quirky, Wonka-inspired rhyme as he presented the Best Director award. Emulating his Oompa-Loompa character, Grant joked about the length of the nominated films, saying, “Oompa-Loompa doompa-de-dong, most of these films were frankly too long.” His playful delivery had the audience in stitches, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about moments, especially when he announced Christopher Nolan as the winner. - Samantha Morton’s Powerful Speech
Samantha Morton gave one of the most poignant speeches of the evening when she accepted the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship. Speaking out about her childhood in the care system, Morton dedicated her award to “every child in care, or who has been in care and who didn’t survive.” She shared how seeing characters like herself on screen in films like Kes had impacted her life, and her emotional words resonated with both the audience and viewers at home. - Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Nostalgic Performance
Sophie Ellis-Bextor brought a nostalgic vibe to the BAFTAs stage with a lively performance of her hit song Murder on the Dancefloor. Featured in the film Saltburn, the song was revived in a fun and energetic performance that had the audience grooving. The performance quickly became a social media hit, celebrating both the song’s return and Ellis-Bextor’s unforgettable stage presence. - Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone’s Sweet Exchange
A sweet and subtle moment occurred when Emma Stone won Best Leading Actress for Poor Things. As she accepted her award, her La La Land co-star Ryan Gosling, nominated for Barbie, gave her a playful wink. The brief exchange reminded fans of their iconic on-screen chemistry and quickly became one of the most endearing moments of the night.
These viral moments helped define the 2024 BAFTAs, creating a mix of laughter, emotion, and nostalgia that captured the hearts of both the audience and fans watching from home.