Yahoo News Awkwafina and Top Boy's Michael Ward lead EE Bafta Rising Star shortlist
Awkwafina today enjoyed a double celebrations after being nominated for a Bafta rising star award hours after her Golden Globes win.
The actor was one of five young talents to be nominated for the award, following in the footsteps of previous winners Daniel Kaluuya, John Boyega, Kristen Stewart and Juno Temple.
Awkwafina, whose real name is Nora Lum, became the first person of Asian descent to win the best actress in a motion picture award at the Golden Globes for her role in The Farewell.
Dunkirk, Mary Queen of Scots and Fighting With My Family star Jack Lowden, Netflix drama Unbelievable actor Kaitlyn Dever, Waves actor Kelvin Harrison Jr and British Top Boy star Micheal Ward complete the rising star line-up.
Awkwafina, whose father is Chinese-American and mother Korean, has also starred in Ocean’s 8; Crazy, Rich Asians and Jumanji: The Next Level. Her upcoming films include Breaking News in Yuba County, The Prom and the Disney live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid.
Tthe New York born star, 31, said: “It’s truly an honour to be nominated for the EE Rising Star Award. I’m grateful I am able to share this recognition with so many other talented actors and actresses.”
Constance Wu was the first Asian woman to be nominated for a best actress Golden Globe for Crazy Rich Asians in 2018, with Sandra Oh the first Asian woman to win best actress in a TV show for Killing Eve that year.
Meanwhile Lowden, 29, said: “What a way to kick off the year. Thank you.”
This year’s nominees were selected by a group of industry names including Vanessa Kirby, Cynthia Erivo, Gemma Whelan and broadcaster Edith Bowman. The latter announced the nominees this morning at The Savoy Hotel.
This year marks the 15th EE Rising Star Award, with the first prize given to James McAvoy in 2006.
The winner, which is voted for by the public, will be announced at the EE British Academy Film Awards on Sunday February 2. Vote for your favourite here.
