David Tennanttook a jocular swipe atDonald Trumpduring his opening monologue on Sunday for the2025 BAFTAs, the British awards celebration for the films of the past year. And while theDoctor Whostar failed to summon the current United States president with hisBeetlejuicejoke, he did manage to elicit more than a few laughs and a round of applause for the segue that followed. Because sometimes, the jokes that speak truth to power truly do write themselves.
While donning a formal kilt after singing a comedic riff on the classic Pretenders' song, “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” — even getting the likes of Anna Kendrick, Colman Domingo, and James McAvoy involved — Tennant went on tolightly roast the nominated filmsand performers of the past year. But given the state of the world and how all eyes are on the arguably-a-fascist, but-sure-let’s-add-an-allegedy-here-so-as-to-not-get-sued Trump and his current maniacal machinations, is anyone surprised he’s become central to many a conversation happening around the world?
“It’s the boldest architecture in film this year, apart from Donald Trump’s hair inThe Apprentice!”
It also probably doesn’t hurt that the wannabe dictator’s early days are a central focus in the filmThe Apprentice,starring Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong.And while most of this bit was cut from the BBC’s broadcast of the ceremony, you’re able to check out the full opening monologue and song and dance number in the video below:
Tennant Gets A Laughing Round Of Applause Comparing Donald Trump To Villains
In fact, Tennant’s first joke about Trump involved praising two films, includingThe Apprentice. While describing Brady Corbet’s tremendous filmThe Brutalist,Tennant described it as, “a film about incredible architecture. In fact, it’s the boldest architecture in film this year, apart from Donald Trump’s hair inThe Apprentice,” which garnered a smattering of chuckles from the audience. To which he continued, adding: “Donald Trump says he hasn’t seenThe Apprenticebecause it’s a 15 [a reference to the UK film rating system] — it’s not on Nickelodeon.”
“Donald Trump,” he blurted, before stopping himself to posit: “I’m worried. I’ve said his name three times. It’s likeBeetlejuice— I’ve summoned him.” Without skipping a beat, he quipped, “And talking of villains…,” which immediately garnered laughs and applause of agreement, while Tennant mentioned the other villains in the room, “likeNosferatu,and Hugh Grant inHeretic.”
Sebastian Stan Shares Appropriately Patriotic Response to Oscar Nomination for Playing Donald Trump
Sebastian Stan has earned his first-ever Oscar nod for his portrayal of the polarizing Donald Trump.
Of course, it wasn’t all jokes at the2025 BAFTA Film Awards: there were also winners. And with no clear frontrunner among the pack, this year’s trophies went out to a smattering of films across genres.Conclavewon four awards, including Best Film, whileThe Brutalistalso won four, including one for its director, Brady Corbet, and its lead actor, Adrien Brody. Other films to nab multiple awards included Jacques Audiard’sEmilia Pérez, Jon M. Chu’sWicked, Jesse Eisenberg’sA Real Pain, Denis Villeneuve’sDune: Part Two, and Nick Park’sWallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl.
One of the biggest surprises of the night went to Mikey Madison’s Best Actress win forAnoraover Demi Moore forThe Substance— many believed the award was the latter’s to win, particularly after her moving Golden Globes speech and worldwide accolades. Alas, it was not meant to be on this night, but we’re still rooting forElisabeth Sparkle to win the Oscar, and forsomebodyto make a joke during that ceremony that’s ruthless enough to make ol' DJT cry.
The Apprentice
