Entertainment

London – Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, made a striking appearance at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards on Sunday, February 22, marking their first joint attendance at the event in three years. The appearance came as the royal family navigates a challenging period following the arrest of Prince Andrew, William’s uncle, on allegations of misconduct in public office. The Prince and Princess of Wales’ presence underscored their continued commitment to their royal duties despite the ongoing family situation.

Catherine, formerly Kate Middleton, showcased a sophisticated look in a pink and burgundy Gucci gown, a re-wear of the dress she first donned at a 100 Women in Finance gala dinner in 2019, according to Town & Country. She complemented the gown with the Cartier earrings originally bequeathed to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother by Dame Margaret Greville in 1942, and later worn by Queen Elizabeth II, before being passed down to Catherine. Prince William coordinated with his wife, opting for a burgundy velvet tuxedo.

Prince William and Princess Kate of Wales arriving at the #BAFTA Film Awards pic.twitter.com/IBrGjqVKXK

— Deadline (@DEADLINE) February 22, 2026

Prince William has served as the president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts since 2010, making his attendance at the awards a regular occurrence. However, this year’s appearance was closely watched given the recent legal developments surrounding his uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on February 19 on suspicion of misconduct in public office, and questioned regarding allegations of sharing confidential material with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as reported by The Guardian.

Investigation and Royal Response

Following his arrest, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was released after approximately 11 hours of questioning, according to BBC News. King Charles III, William’s father and Mountbatten-Windsor’s brother, released a statement emphasizing the importance of due process. “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” the King stated. “What now follows is the full, fair, and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and cooperation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”

Mountbatten-Windsor had previously stepped down from royal duties in 2019 and was stripped of his royal title last year. BBC News also reported that the U.K. Government is considering legislation to potentially remove him from his position as eighth in the line of royal succession.

A Silent Stance on the Red Carpet

Despite the intense scrutiny surrounding the family, William and Catherine maintained a composed demeanor on the BAFTA red carpet. According to People, one attendee directly asked the couple if the monarchy was in peril, but they did not offer a response. Variety reported that the Prince and Princess of Wales did not stop to speak with reporters as they entered London’s Royal Festival Hall, maintaining a deliberate silence on the matter.

The couple’s decision not to address the press reflects a carefully considered approach to navigating the current situation. Their presence at the BAFTA Awards, alongside Hollywood’s elite, served as a visible demonstration of their commitment to their public roles amidst personal and familial challenges. The focus remained on celebrating the achievements of the film industry, with the royal couple signaling their support through their attendance.

As the investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor continues, the royal family will likely face ongoing questions about the stability of the monarchy. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of these events and how the royal family will adapt to the evolving circumstances.

What are your thoughts on the Prince and Princess of Wales’ appearance at the BAFTA Awards? Share your comments below and join the conversation.

With the ever-increasing costs of streaming services, finding affordable entertainment options is more important than ever. This weekend, you can skip adding another subscription to your bill and enjoy a movie night courtesy of The Roku Channel. Offering hundreds of films and TV shows completely free of charge – supported by ads – The Roku Channel provides a surprisingly robust library for budget-conscious viewers. If you’re looking for a great movie without opening your wallet, here are three picks currently available on The Roku Channel.

From a Shakespearean reimagining starring a Star Wars alum to a gripping war story and an award-winning drama, there’s something for everyone. The Roku Channel’s rotating selection means these titles won’t be available forever, so now is the time to check them out. Forget endlessly scrolling through options – we’ve curated a list to facilitate you make the most of your weekend.

“Ophelia” (2018): A Fresh Take on a Classic

Claire McCarthy’s “Ophelia” offers a compelling twist on Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, by centering the narrative around the often-overlooked character of Ophelia. Daisy Ridley, known for her role as Rey in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, delivers a powerful performance as a rebellious Ophelia who finds herself caught between loyalty and desire. The film also features Naomi Watts as Queen Gertrude and Clive Owen, adding further star power to this reimagined story.

As Collider notes, the film provides a unique perspective on a familiar tale, giving voice to a character often relegated to the sidelines. Watch the trailer here.

“Hacksaw Ridge” (2016): A True Story of Courage

Mel Gibson’s “Hacksaw Ridge” is a powerful war film based on the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a medic during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II. Andrew Garfield delivers a critically acclaimed performance as Doss, a devout Seventh-day Adventist who refused to carry a weapon, yet repeatedly risked his life to save his fellow soldiers. The film showcases Doss’s unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his extraordinary bravery in the face of unimaginable danger.

The film’s climax, set during the brutal battle on Hacksaw Ridge, depicts Doss single-handedly rescuing wounded soldiers from the battlefield, lowering them down a steep cliff even as under heavy fire. See a glimpse of the intensity in this narrated clip.

“Fences” (2016): A Pulitzer Prize-Winning Drama

Denzel Washington both directs and stars in “Fences,” a moving adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Washington reprises his Tony Award-winning role as Troy Maxson, a former baseball player grappling with unfulfilled dreams and strained relationships with his family in 1950s Pittsburgh. The film explores themes of regret, ambition, and the complexities of the American Dream.

“Fences” received numerous accolades, including multiple Academy Award nominations, and showcases Washington’s masterful direction and a compelling performance alongside Jovan Adepo, who plays his son. Watch the trailer here.

The Roku Channel continues to update its free movie selection, offering a rotating roster of titles to suit various tastes. As streaming costs continue to rise, platforms like The Roku Channel provide a valuable alternative for those seeking quality entertainment without the hefty price tag. Maintain an eye on The Roku Channel’s offerings for more free movie options in the weeks to come.

What are your favorite free streaming services? Share your recommendations in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with anyone looking for a budget-friendly movie night!