Derry Girls star Siobhan McSweeney's comments on government "stupidity" were conspicuously absent from the BBC One broadcast of her acceptance speech at the BAFTA TV Awards last night (14 May). The unedited version of her speech, which included these remarks, was available for viewing on YouTube. Twitter users accused the BBC of censorship over this edit, an ironic development given that BAFTA TV hosts Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan had a running skit throughout the ceremony about the public service broadcaster's obligation to remain "balanced." Representatives for both parties have been contacted for comment.
McSweeney won Best Female Comedy Performance at the awards show for her role as Sister Michael in Channel 4’s Northern Ireland-set show “Derry Girls.” During her acceptance speech, she thanked her family and show creator Lisa McGee. However, only parts of it were aired on BBC One due to what they cited as 'time constraints.'
The actress seemingly referred to Brexit-related political issues surrounding Northern Ireland when she praised Derry residents' spirit despite being subjected to "the indignities, ignorance, and stupidity" by their leaders in Dublin, Stormont, and Westminster. This portion was excluded from the televised coverage but was seen on YouTube.
Twitter user @OhHeyJacob compared both versions side-by-side in a tweet showcasing how portions of McSweeney’s statement were cut by the broadcasting corporation. Two executives reportedly review broadcasts before airing them with instructions to remove overtly political or sexual content.
As accusations fly regarding potential censorship motives behind this editing choice by BBC One during such a prominent event like Bafta TV Awards - where Derry Girl later took home Best Scripted Comedy honors – questions mount over whether free expression is truly protected within public forums such as these ceremonies.