At the 2025 British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), the audience witnessed an unexpected moment when Selena Gomez encountered a hiccup during her presentation. While handing out the award for 'Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer,' she hesitated on stage, struggling with the Gaelic pronunciation of the winning film, *Kneecap*. Standing alongside her was her *Emilia Pérez* co-star, Zoe Saldana, who quickly stepped in to assist. Gomez awkwardly stated, 'I don't know how to say...' before passing the responsibility to Saldana, who gracefully announced the winner's name.
The Controversial Film 'Kneecap'
The film *Kneecap* with its vibrant portrayal of the Irish rap scene, tells the story of a band notorious for their anti-British sentiment and monarchy-challenging lyrics. Directed by Rich Peppiatt, it emerged as a standout contender, triumphing over films like Dev Patel's *Monkey Man*. Peppiatt's acceptance speech was just as politically charged as his film; he highlighted the significance of cultural and linguistic respect and celebrated the preservation of Irish heritage.
Adding another dimension to the movie's narrative, *Kneecap* features real members from the titular rap group—Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí. Not only did they play roles in the film, but they also brought their real-world activism into the storyline, critiquing broader themes such as British colonialism, while also voicing their support for Palestinian liberation.
The Online Reaction
The offbeat moment involving Gomez quickly spread across social media, especially on platforms like X. Users shared memes and joking comments, turning her misstep into a viral sensation. Meanwhile, *Kneecap* social media antics also gained traction. The band posted a bold, politically charged image of an Irish balaclava superimposed over Big Ben. Accompanied by a strong statement condemning British actions in Gaza, this stirred mixed reactions, amplifying the discussions around the film's central themes.
Despite the initial hiccup, the night at the BAFTAs unfolded as a captivating event, sparking conversations about cultural expression and activism. Both Selena Gomez's unexpected struggle and *Kneecap*'s bold messages contributed to a memorable evening that was about far more than just awarding talent.