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Netflix had a strong showing at the 2026 British Academy Film Awards, blending musical spectacle with cinematic artistry. The evening featured a vibrant performance by HUNTR/X, the fictional K-pop group from the hit film KPop Demon Hunters, and a sweep of three awards for the visually stunning Frankenstein. The night underscored Netflix’s growing influence in both music and film, even as KPop Demon Hunters faced eligibility challenges for the awards themselves.
EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, the singers behind HUNTR/X, captivated the BAFTA audience with a performance of their chart-topping song “Golden.” The performance marked the first time the group has performed the track live outside of the United States, demonstrating the global reach of the film and its soundtrack. Attendees, including Chase Infiniti, were seen singing along to the megahit, which recently earned a Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice Award and is nominated for Best Original Song at the upcoming Oscars Rolling Stone reports.
Despite its popularity, KPop Demon Hunters was deemed ineligible for a BAFTA Award due to a lack of a qualifying theatrical release in the UK. Netflix argued that a later theatrical run, two months after its debut on the streaming platform, should be considered under BAFTA’s “exceptional circumstances” clause, but the appeal was ultimately rejected according to Variety. Nevertheless, organizers welcomed the performance, recognizing the film’s cultural impact.
The evening wasn’t solely focused on music, however. Frankenstein, a reimagining of Mary Shelley’s classic novel, took home three awards: Production Design, Make-Up & Hair, and Costume Design. These wins celebrated the meticulous craftsmanship that brought the gothic tale to life on screen.
The celebration continued at an exclusive Netflix after-party held at The Twenty Two in London. Numerous stars from Netflix productions were in attendance, including Kerry Washington (Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery), Aimee Lou Wood (Sex Education), Joe Locke and Kit Connor (Heartstopper), Jay Lycurgo (Steve), and Louis Partridge (Enola Holmes). Ted Sarandos was also present, mingling with the performers from KPop Demon Hunters and the creative team behind Frankenstein.
The BAFTA performance and awards wins highlight Netflix’s continued investment in diverse content, from innovative animated films and globally-reaching K-pop sensations to classic literary adaptations. The streaming giant’s presence at the awards ceremony signals its ongoing ambition to be a major player in the global film and music industries.
As Netflix continues to expand its slate of original programming, audiences can anticipate further collaborations between established and emerging artists, and a continued push for innovative storytelling. The company’s commitment to both cinematic excellence and musical innovation suggests a dynamic future for its productions and a growing influence on the entertainment landscape.
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