Bafta to award British actors in US dramas

BAFTA is to open its acting categories to the British stars of US shows, in a rule change that will position the awards as a rival to the Emmys.

At last month’s Emmy Awards, Kate Winslet, right, was named best actress for Mare of Easttown, in which she plays a detective in a Pennsylvania town.

Ewan Mcgregor won best actor for his starring role in Halston, while Brett Goldstein and Hannah Waddingham took home awards for their roles in the comedy series Ted Lasso.

All are British yet none of them would be eligible for Baftas under the current rules, because the shows are American, although available to watch in the UK.

Yesterday, Bafta announced that it is changing the rules from next year. While the shows will continue to appear in the international section, the actors will be able to compete alongside the stars of British dramas.

A spokesman for Bafta said: “Now feels like the right time, given that British performers are excelling and many in shows that are eligible in the international category only.” Bafta is also piloting a rule change that would mean productions have to prove their environmental credentials in order to gain a nomination.

For 2022, entrants will be asked to demonstrate successful completion of a “carbon action plan” to reduce their environmental impact.

Sara Putt, chairman of the Bafta television committee, said: “Each year we consult with the industry and review our rules and eligibility criteria to ensure our awards not only reflect an evolving global industry but also help drive positive change.”