Rebel Wilson’s 2020 BAFTAs Joke About Prince Andrew Resurfaces Ahead of Hosting Gig

A joke made by Rebel Wilson about Prince Andrew’s links to Jeffrey Epstein during the 2020 British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) has resurfaced as she prepares to host the ceremony this weekend. The joke, delivered in front of Prince William and Kate Middleton, prompted an awkward reaction from the royal couple and mixed responses from viewers.

The 2020 BAFTAs Incident

While presenting the Best Director award, Wilson playfully stumbled over the name of the venue, making references to Prince Andrew and Prince Harry. “It is really great to be here at the Royal Andrew… Uh, Royal Harry… No, sorry, Royal Phil- at this royal… Palace place,” she said, according to reports from the time. Cameras immediately cut to Prince William and Kate, who were seen staring at Wilson from the front row.

The joke came at a sensitive time, as Prince Andrew had recently stepped down from royal duties following a BBC Newsnight interview regarding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In the interview, Prince Andrew denied allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, claiming he had “no recollection” of meeting her.

Royal Reactions and Aftermath

Initial reactions to the joke were varied. Some viewers found it “cringe” and “disgustingly unfunny,” expressing sympathy for William and Kate. Others praised Wilson’s boldness, with one viewer noting, “Three cheers for the producer who cut to William and Kate after Rebel Wilson’s Prince Andrew and Harry joke.”

Wilson later revealed that she spoke with Kate and William’s private secretary after the awards show and that “all seemed fine.” She emphasized that her intention wasn’t to cause harm, stating, “I mean, obviously, I’m not a malicious person either — my goal is not to try to capture down someone, especially at the BAFTAs.”

In November 2025, King Charles III officially stripped Prince Andrew of his titles – Prince, Royal Highness and Duke of York – due to the ongoing controversy surrounding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Other Awkward Moments at the 2020 BAFTAs

Margot Robbie also contributed to the evening’s awkwardness when she read a message from Brad Pitt, who was unable to attend the ceremony. She relayed that Pitt wanted to name his award “Harry” because he was excited to bring it back to the United States, prompting laughter from William and Kate.

Prince William has served as the President of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) since 2010.