Cynthia Erivo Won’t Perform at BAFTAs After All-White Nominees Spark Outrage

Cynthia Erivo could land two Academy Award nominations on Monday morning: one for Best Actress for her applauded turn in “Harriet,” and another as singer and performer of the period drama film’s musical anthem, “Stand Up.” However, Erivo did not land a BAFTA nomination earlier this week for “Harriet,” and neither did any people of color across the four acting categories.

While the BAFTAs do not have a Best Original Song category, barring Erivo from a nomination there, the British Academy did invite her to perform “Stand Up” at the ceremony, which is being held February 2.

However, in the wake of #BAFTAsSoWhite, Erivo has turned down the offer.Erivo confirmed to Extra (via People) her refusal to perform at the BAFTAs, telling the outlet, “I felt like [the invitation] didn’t represent people of color in the right light,” she told the outlet.

“It felt like it was calling on me

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