Cardiff – September 4, 2023: BAFTA Cymru, the Welsh branch of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), has announced the selection of beloved Welsh actress Rakie Ayola as this year’s distinguished recipient of the prestigious Siân Phillips Award. The Siân Phillips Award, regarded as one of BAFTA Cymru’s highest honors, is exclusively presented to Welsh individuals whose indelible contributions have left an enduring mark on the realms of film and television.
Rakie Ayola’s illustrious career spans over three decades, encompassing a diverse array of roles across film, theater, and television. Her portfolio is peppered with collaborations alongside some of the United Kingdom’s most eminent writers, directors, and creatives.
Yet, Ayola’s influence extends beyond her artistic endeavors. She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the vital causes of diversity and representation within the industry, both on-screen and behind the scenes. Her advocacy has not only reshaped the narrative landscape but has also championed complex and thought-provoking storytelling.
Among her recent triumphs, Ayola’s portrayals in various productions have garnered widespread acclaim. Notable highlights include her compelling performance in the BBC One television series “The Pact” (2021 – present), where she also served as an executive producer. Her role as Gee Walker in the BBC film “Anthony” (2020) earned her the coveted title of Best Supporting Actress at the 2021 BAFTA Television Awards. Ayola’s exceptional talent shone in roles such as ACC Alison Vosper in ITV’s television drama “Grace” (2021), her involvement in Amazon’s spy thriller television series “Alex Rider” (2021 – second season), and her standout performance in Channel 4’s BAFTA-winning police-comedy drama “No Offence” (2015), where she portrayed the matriarch Nora Attah. Furthermore, Ayola left a significant mark in BBC One’s adaptation of Malorie Blackman’s “Noughts & Crosses” (2021) as Prime Minister Opal Folami and in the Netflix film “Been So Long” (2018), opposite Michaela Coel and George McKay, written by Che Walker.
In response to this esteemed accolade, Rakie Ayola expressed her gratitude, stating, “It’s taken me a long time to respond to this news. In fact, the reality of it still hasn’t kicked in. Diolch yn fawr iawn BAFTA Cymru for choosing to make me this year’s recipient of the Sian Phillips Award. Legacy is vitally important to me, so I’m hugely honored to join the list of those who’ve been recognized in the past and hope I can use this incredible platform to work with and encourage others whose names may be added in the future.”
Rakie Ayola’s journey towards becoming a distinguished actress began in Ely, Cardiff, where her passion ignited at the age of eight, inspired by Barbra Streisand’s performance in “Hello Dolly” on BBC1. Throughout her comprehensive school years, she actively participated in Orbit Youth Theatre, South Glamorgan Youth Theatre, South Glamorgan Youth Choir, and, with the support of a grant from South Glamorgan Education Authority, the National Youth Theatre of Wales.
When offered an unconditional place at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Ayola made the bold decision to forego her A-levels in English, Music, and French. With her five O-levels and a full grant from the Local Education Authority (LEA), she embarked on a three-year Acting Diploma.
In addition to her remarkable screen career, Rakie Ayola has earned accolades for her exceptional on-stage performances. Her honorary fellowship at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama culminated in her role as a judge alongside Sir Ian McKellen for their new Shakespeare Prize.
Rebecca Hardy, Interim Head of BAFTA Cymru, commended Ayola’s invaluable contributions, stating, “Rakie is an incredible talent who inspires, drives, and enriches the industry here in Wales and beyond. Dedicated to her craft, she delivers empathetic and connected performances, demonstrating not only her acting ability but compassion and understanding of social and political issues that viewers can glean so much from. As a sought-after creative force, she also takes immense pride in her country and unfailingly represents Wales in every step of her journey. BAFTA Cymru is delighted to present Rakie with the Siân Phillips Award, and we eagerly anticipate celebrating her diverse and impressive career at the forthcoming BAFTA Cymru Awards.”
The prestigious Siân Phillips Award will be conferred upon Rakie Ayola during a special presentation of her work at the BAFTA Cymru Awards, set to take place on October 15, 2023. Notably, this year’s ceremony marks a significant shift in venue, as it will be held at the International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales) in Newport, with a live broadcast accessible on BAFTA’s YouTube channel.
The highly anticipated nominations for the BAFTA Cymru Awards 2023 are slated for release later this week on Wednesday, September 6, at 08:00 (GMT).
