‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Removed From GLAAD Awards Consideration
Bohemian Rhapsody was likely a shoo-in for a nomination at the 30th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, but the film has been pulled from consideration after new accusations of sexual assault against director Bryan Singer was reported by The Atlantic earlier this week.
In a statement to Variety, GLAAD, an LGBTQ media monitoring organization, said, “In light of the latest allegations against director Bryan Singer, GLAAD has made the difficult decision to remove Bohemian Rhapsody from contention for a GLAAD Media Award in the Outstanding Film – Wide Release category this year. This week’s story in The Atlantic documenting unspeakable harms endured by young men and teenage boys brought to light a reality that cannot be ignored or even tacitly rewarded.”
GLAAD’s statement continued, “The team that worked so hard on Bohemian Rhapsody as well as the legacy of Freddie Mercury deserve so much more than to be tainted in this way. Bohemian Rhapsody brought the story of LGBTQ icon Freddie Mercury to audiences around the world, many of whom never saw an out and proud lead character in a film or saw the impact of HIV and AIDS in fair and accurate ways. The impact of the film is undeniable. We believe, however, that we must send a clear and unequivocal message to LGBTQ youth and all survivors of sexual assault that GLAAD and our community will stand with survivors and will not be silent when it comes to protecting them from those who would do them harm.”
Singer has had numerous sexual misconduct allegations against him over the years. The report from The Atlantic chronicled a number of new allegations, as well as Singer’s history of accusations, which spans 20 years. Singer has denied all allegations against him and dismissed the new ones reported by The Atlantic as a “homophobic smear piece has been conveniently timed to take advantage of its success.”
Singer was fired by 20th Century Fox three weeks before Bohemian Rhapsody wrapped filming due to various issues on set with the cast and crew. He was also missing from the film’s set for days at a time.
Erica Banas is rock/classic rock news blogger that loves the smell of old vinyl in the morning.
