| CROWN II | 👑👑

CHAPTER 79 : BAFTA 2023

PLACE : Royal Festival Hall, London

DATE :  February 19, 2023

The 76th annual British Academy Film Awards, more commonly known as the BAFTAs, took place this Sunday, February 19th, in London. As usual, the event was a glitzy celebration of the best in British and international film, drawing a host of stars from all corners of the globe. Julianne Moore, Florence Pugh, Cate Blanchett, and many others made their grand appearances on the red carpet. But amidst the flashing lights and glittering gowns, there was one family whose presence truly captured the world's attention—Catherine, Princess of Wales, Prince William, and their eldest daughter, Princess Matilda.

It had been two years since the family last attended the prestigious event. The previous year, the Prince and Princess of Wales had been absent due to "schedule constraints." In 2021, they were forced to miss the ceremony altogether, as it took place just days after the death of Prince Philip. This marked a highly anticipated return for the royal couple, and their daughter, Matilda, who has become increasingly involved in public life.

The buzz around the royal family's appearance was palpable, as they arrived at the Royal Albert Hall, London's iconic venue for the ceremony. All eyes turned to the family as they exited their black Range Rover, the glimmer of the red carpet reflecting off their elegant outfits.

The moment was not just about their return after a long absence; it was about their presence marking an important turning point in their roles as senior members of the British monarchy.

Prince William stepped forward first, the cameras capturing his sharp, well-tailored black velvet blazer, a perfect contrast to his wife's ethereal elegance. His attire was impeccable, as expected—dark and sophisticated, the quintessential royal figure. As he looked down at Catherine, a warm smile lit up his face.

"You look stunning, darling," he murmured softly, his words just between them as the photographers clicked away.

Catherine smiled back, her lips curving into a delicate but genuine smile. "Thank you, Will," she replied, her eyes sparkling under the night lights. She turned slightly, catching the cameras' attention. Catherine was every bit the regal figure the world had come to adore—her Jenny Packham gown was a masterpiece of British design, a crisp, one-shoulder creation that highlighted her graceful figure. The gown was pristine white, and its simplicity only accentuated her natural beauty. Her long black gloves added a touch of drama, and the floral earrings from Zara provided the perfect finishing touch.

At that moment, the chatter from the press grew louder, all eyes now on the royal family. But what really captured the imagination of the onlookers was the arrival of their eldest daughter, Princess Matilda. The 12-year-old, poised well beyond her years, stepped onto the red carpet with a quiet confidence. Matilda was dressed in a tailored midnight blue dress with subtle sparkles. Her dark hair was pulled back into an elegant updo, and she wore a slight smile, her gaze steady, as if she had done this a thousand times before.

"Are you excited for tonight?" a reporter asked her as she posed for the cameras, her parents by her side.

Matilda smiled politely, her voice clear. "It's an honor to be here," she said. "The BAFTAs celebrate the amazing achievements in film, and I'm happy to be here with my family."

Her maturity shone through in her words. At just 12 years old, Matilda had already become a regular fixture at royal events, but tonight felt different. It wasn't just about her presence; it was about her increasing involvement in royal duties. There was no mistaking that, like her father, she was being groomed for a future leadership role.

As the family made their way inside, they were greeted warmly by the hosts and dignitaries. The BAFTAs were not just a celebration of film—they were also a night to celebrate the power and influence of the British royal family. This year, however, it was even more significant as the ceremony paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in September 2022. Her legacy had shaped not just the monarchy, but also the film industry, having been a patron of the arts throughout her reign.