At the 73rd British Academy Film Awards, actor Joaquin Phoenix won Best Leading Actor for his portrayal of Arthur Fleck in the DC Comics-based character study Joker. During his acceptance speech, Phoenix took the time to deliver a poignant and topic speech criticizing the lack of diversity seen in the nominees chosen for this year's awards season.
"I feel conflicted because so many of my fellow actors that are deserving don't have that same privilege," Phoenix said while on stage. "I think we send a very clear message to people of color that you're not welcome here.
"I don’t think anybody wants a handout or preferential treatment, people just want to be acknowledged, appreciated and respected for their work," he continued. "This is not a self-righteous condemnation. I’m part of the problem."
Phoenix concluded his speech be explaining the need to "do the hard work to truly understand systemic racism. I think it is the obligation of the people that have created and perpetuate and benefit from a society of oppression to be the ones to dismantle it. That's on us."
Phoenix was not the only one to speak up about the lack of diversity seen in nominees this year. Prince William, Rebel Wilson and Parasite director Bong Joon Ho also offered their thoughts on awards shows' bias when it comes to gender, race and sexuality. After his acclaimed performance in Joker, Phoenix will next star in director Mike Mills' drama C'mon, C'mon alongside Transparent actress Gaby Hoffmann.
Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker stars Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais and Shea Whigham. The film is currently available on Digital HD, Blu-ray, 4K UHD and DVD.
(via Deadline)