A joke made by Rebel Wilson at the 2020 British Academy Film Awards about Prince Andrew and his ties to Jeffrey Epstein is drawing renewed attention as the BAFTAs prepare to return this weekend. The quip, delivered while presenting the Best Director award, landed awkwardly in front of Prince William and Kate Middleton and sparked a range of reactions at the time.
Wilson’s reference to the scandal, which had recently dominated headlines following a disastrous BBC interview with Prince Andrew, prompted a noticeable reaction from the Prince and Princess of Wales, who were seated in the front row. The incident highlights the delicate balance between comedic license and royal sensitivities, particularly when addressing highly sensitive and publicly scrutinized issues.
Addressing the audience at London’s Royal Albert Hall, Wilson playfully stumbled over the venue’s name, saying, “Good evening distinguished guests and those that don’t identify as that. It is really great to be here, at the Royal Andrew… Royal Harry… No, sorry, Royal Phil- at this royal… Palace place,” according to reports from the time. The joke alluded to Prince Andrew’s links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and the recent departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from royal duties.
The joke came at a particularly fraught moment for the royal family. Prince Andrew had stepped down from royal duties following a BBC Newsnight interview where he denied allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, claiming he had “no recollection” of meeting her. He also defended his friendship with Epstein as “useful” for business opportunities.
Reports indicate the audience responded with a mix of laughter and discomfort, while cameras immediately focused on William and Kate, capturing their reaction. While their facial expressions didn’t reveal much, some observers noted a “frozen awkwardness,” as one Twitter user described it at the time.
Mixed Reactions to the Joke
The joke sparked a divided response, with some finding it “cringe” and expressing sympathy for the Prince and Princess of Wales being placed in an uncomfortable position. Others defended Wilson’s right to make a political statement and praised the boldness of the joke. One Twitter user wrote, “Three cheers for the producer who cut to William and Kate after Rebel Wilson’s Prince Andrew and Harry joke.”
Wilson later revealed she spoke with Kate and William’s private secretary after the ceremony and that “all seemed fine.” She emphasized that her intention wasn’t to maliciously target anyone, stating, “I mean, obviously, I’m not a malicious person either — my goal is not to try to take down someone, especially at the BAFTAs.” She also shared that a friend within the royal family assured her they all possess a sense of humor and “secretly love it,” according to 9Honey.
Further Awkwardness and Royal Roles
The 2020 BAFTAs also included another slightly awkward moment when Margot Robbie, presenting on behalf of Brad Pitt, joked about his award being named “Harry,” referencing Prince Harry’s recent move to the United States. William and Kate were seen laughing during this exchange.
Prince William has served as the President of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) since 2010, succeeding Lord Attenborough. In this role, he and Kate, the Princess of Wales, consistently attend the annual BAFTA Film Awards to support the film industry and engage with nominees, and presenters.
In November 2025, King Charles III officially stripped Prince Andrew of his titles – Prince, Royal Highness, and Duke of York – following ongoing controversy surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein. This decision underscored the severity of the allegations and the royal family’s efforts to distance itself from the scandal.
As the BAFTAs approach once more, the resurfacing of Wilson’s joke serves as a reminder of the complexities of navigating humor and public figures, particularly within the context of significant and sensitive events. The upcoming ceremony will undoubtedly be watched closely for any similar moments of levity or potential awkwardness.
What will be the tone of this year’s BAFTAs, and will any presenters attempt similar boundary-pushing humor? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with your friends.
