BAFTA has suspended Bohemian Rhapsody director Bryan Singer’s nomination over allegations of sexual abuse.
The biopic of British band Queen remains in contention for Outstanding British Film, however Singer’s name has been removed from the nomination.
The nomination now lists only producer Graham King and writer Anthony McCarten.
“In light of recent very serious allegations, BAFTA has informed Bryan Singer that his nomination for Bohemian Rhapsody has been suspended, effective immediately,” said a BAFTA statement.
It follows allegations in an Atlantic article that the director had sexual relationships with boys despite knowing they were under the age of consent.
The director has denied the allegations, describing the story as a ‘homophobic smear piece’.
Singer received the directorial credit for box office hit Bohemian Rhapsody, despite being replaced late in shooting by Dexter Fletcher.
BAFTA said it had noted Singer’s denial of the allegations, saying the suspension will remain in place until the outcome of the allegations has been resolved.
“BAFTA considers the alleged behaviour completely unacceptable and incompatible with its values. This has led to Mr Singer’s suspended nomination,” said the statement.
Singer received widespread acclaim for his 1995 film The Usual Suspects, starring Irish actor Gabriel Byrne, and has achieved box office success with his X-Men movies.
The BAFTAs take place this Sunday, February 10.
