For the second year in a row, the Prince and Princess of Wales were noticeably absent from the British Academy Film Awardsâa glittering evening where theyâve traditionally walked the red carpet, turning heads alongside the biggest names in film.
But in 2025, despite speculation and anticipation, Prince William and Princess Catherine were not among the attendees. Kensington Palace confirmed their absence just before the event aired, noting that while the couple would not be present in person, Prince William would appear in a pre-recorded tribute, celebrating the 20th anniversary of BAFTAâs Rising Star Award.
According to palace sources, the BAFTA filming coincided with a private family holidayâa rare, quiet break offering the family space and time away from the public eye. Still, royal watchers couldnât help but wonder, especially given Kateâs history with the awards.
Prince William has served as President of BAFTA since 2010, using his platform to champion emerging talent and innovation in British cinema. Catherine, meanwhile, has made the BAFTAs a stage not only for fashion, but for thoughtful, intentional public presence.
Her BAFTA journey began in 2017, wearing a striking Alexander McQueen gown in a regal violet jacquard. With delicate slip-shoulder straps and a perfectly tailored fit, the look balanced royal formality with modern elegance. Statement earrings and a bracelet once worn by Queen Elizabeth II added a touch of heritage.
In 2018, while pregnant with Prince Louis, Catherine stunned in an emerald Jenny Packham gown. Though it drew minor controversyâmany stars wore black in solidarity with the #MeToo movementâKateâs color choice reflected the royal familyâs apolitical stance while still exuding grace and strength.
Then came 2019, and what many consider one of her most iconic looks: a flowing white one-shoulder Alexander McQueen gown, adorned with floral appliquĂ©s. But it was her pearl and diamond earrings, once belonging to Princess Diana, that truly stole the spotlightâa touching, emotional tribute that connected past and present.
In 2020, she re-wore a gold-embroidered gown from a 2012 Malaysia state dinner, aligning with BAFTAâs sustainable fashion initiative. The re-styling proved that glamour and eco-consciousness can walk hand-in-handâechoing Kateâs increasingly thoughtful approach to public appearances.
She missed 2021 due to Prince Philipâs passing, and again in 2022, citing scheduling conflicts. But in 2023, Catherine made a triumphant return in a reimagined version of her 2019 gown, this time paired with black opera gloves and dramatic Zara statement earringsâa perfect mix of high fashion and accessibility.
The event also included a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, with Helen Mirren leading the homage. For many, it was a moment that reminded us just how seamlessly the Waleses balance duty, tradition, and their personal lives.
In 2025, Kateâs absence felt differentâmore poignant. Following her 2024 cancer diagnosis and treatment, the decision to skip the red carpet was understandable. Her focus, it seems, has shiftedâto recovery, to health, to family. No new fashion moment emerged. But the memories of her past appearances still resonate.
Because for Catherine, the BAFTAs have never just been about the clothes. Theyâve been about purpose.
Her outfitsâoften Alexander McQueenâarenât just stylish, theyâre symbolic. They represent continuity, sustainability, and emotional resonance. Whether honoring Diana with jewelry, or re-wearing gowns with intention, Kateâs choices reflect her evolutionâfrom duchess to royal style icon, and more recently, to a woman navigating public life through deeply personal challenges.
Her 2025 absence is a reminder: behind the gowns and titles is a human being. One who, even amid the glitter of royal life, continues to inspireâthrough resilience, authenticity, and a quietly powerful sense of purpose.
