Austin Butler took home the best actor trophy at this year’s BAFTAs – but the internet was divided.
Butler, 31, was awarded for his performance in “Elvis,” which will be released in 2022. He was nominated against Colin Farrell, the fan favorite for the main honor.
Brendan Fraser of The Whale, Paul Mezcal of Aftersun, Bill Nighy of Life and Darryl McCormack of Good Luck, and Rio Grande also received honors in the same category nominate.
In his acceptance speech, Butler said it was “really special” to receive the award. “It’s an honor for my other nominees,” he said.
Fans of Farrell, however, called his win a “thump” for the actor, who was initially recognized for his performance in Banshee.
“Colin Farrell is still best actor in my eyes,” wrote one person on Twitter. Another wrote, “Colin Farrell got robbed yet again.”
“Love the movie and performance but feel guilty for Colin Farrell – if it wasn’t here then I don’t think it would have happened,” another wrote after Butler’s win.
Fans of Paul Mescal were equally disappointed by the result. “I would accept losing to Colin Farrell but Paul Mezcal losing to Elvis? No, just no,” tweeted one fan.