Joaquin Phoenix’s BAFTA Speech Sparks Debate: Is Hollywood Ready to Face Its Systemic Racism?

When Joaquin Phoenix took the stage at the 2020 BAFTA Awards to accept the Leading Actor award for his role in Joker, few expected the Hollywood star to use his moment in the spotlight to call out the industry’s long-standing problem with systemic racism. But that’s exactly what he did—delivering a speech that quickly went viral and ignited a fresh wave of conversation about diversity and accountability in entertainment.

.

.

.

“A Clear Message to People of Color”

Phoenix began by expressing gratitude for his career and the support he’s received, but he quickly pivoted to a more somber note. “I also feel conflicted,” he said, “because so many of my fellow actors that are deserving don’t have that same privilege.” He didn’t mince words about what this lack of representation means: “We send a very clear message to people of color that you’re not welcome here.”

The actor’s remarks were both self-reflective and critical of the industry as a whole. “I’m ashamed to say that I’m part of the problem,” Phoenix admitted, acknowledging he hadn’t always done enough to ensure inclusivity on the sets where he worked. “We have to really do the hard work to truly understand systemic racism,” he urged, adding that those who benefit from oppressive systems have an obligation to dismantle them.

Applause—and Skepticism

While Phoenix’s speech was widely shared and praised online, it also drew measured skepticism from commentators and industry watchers. On the popular show Roland Martin Unfiltered, panelists debated whether such speeches are enough to create real change.

“I applaud him for his awareness,” said one guest, “but I need more than a speech out of Joaquin Phoenix. As he said in that speech, he has not done enough. Hopefully, the speech is a first start and that there’s already something on the books that he will back up with action.”

The panelists pointed to concrete efforts by other actors, such as Michael B. Jordan’s inclusion rider—a contractual clause requiring diversity in hiring for film productions—as examples of meaningful progress that go beyond words.

“Do It When It Matters”

Some panelists questioned the impact of Phoenix’s remarks, noting that he delivered the speech at the BAFTAs in London, rather than at a major American awards show like the Golden Globes or the Oscars. “I wish he and other people who like to have these moments do it when it matters a little more,” one panelist commented, suggesting that calling out racism in front of a predominantly white Hollywood audience would have been even more significant.

The Challenge of Accountability

The conversation on Roland Martin Unfiltered highlighted a growing demand for accountability and action from Hollywood’s biggest stars. “The proof is in the pudding, in terms of what you do,” one panelist said. While Phoenix’s speech was a powerful acknowledgment of the problem, many believe the industry needs more leaders willing to push for systemic change—not just in words, but in hiring, casting, and production decisions.

A Step Forward—But Not Enough

Joaquin Phoenix’s speech at the BAFTAs was a rare moment of candor from a major Hollywood star, and it has sparked important conversations about race, privilege, and responsibility in the entertainment industry. But as the reactions show, speeches alone won’t solve Hollywood’s diversity crisis. Real progress, many argue, will require sustained action from those with the most power and influence.

What do you think? Is Hollywood finally ready to confront its own racism—or will this be just another viral speech?