John Boyega added to his collection of awards this weekend, picking up the gong for best male performance at the Screen Nation Awards.
And during his acceptance speech, he made reference to the ongoing debate surrounding diversity in the film industry, saying complaining about the problem "is not going to benefit us".
He said, "To complain about what is going on is not going to benefit us. It is not. Be the change you want to be. Be the change. And continue and focus. Thank you so much."
However, this part of his speech didn't go down too well. Many people took to Twitter to express their annoyance at his comments.
Historically, complaining has changed laws, given people a voice, and created spaces for idiots like @JohnBoyega. https://t.co/Lvu35Bp2V6
Being black most of the time u will put in double the work, for half the merit... That's not complaining, that's real life. @JohnBoyega
@JohnBoyega dismissing legitimate grievances as "complaining" because your narrative has been different? Should've just kept quiet.
In fact, the criticism led to John taking to Twitter later in the evening, to explain his comments and offer a public apology.
Regarding my comments at the screen nation awards (just to clarify) I am not saying that complaints are invalid or should not be heard
I am saying that words without action can't help right now. I agree that we need to be heard but some do the talking and no work.
But I do agree ! I didn't clarify. I was full of emotion receiving the award and just wanted to say that there was work to be done.
I'm not in this position without the people that champion me. I was in Peckham struggling not too long ago. I'm not above anyone X love
Really feel bad for not clarifying and quite fearful that I've mislead many. Not about respectability tactics. I'm really sorry X
It seems that the apology and clarification were enough for John to be back in people's good books.
@JohnBoyega hey it's okay! It's so easy for words to be misinterpreted in the moment. Thanks for clarifying :) xo
@JohnBoyega Everyone makes mistakes, sir. Thanks for all your hard work!
@JohnBoyega :( hey you had good intentions, you know what you meant and you clarified. Not many would bother. It's clear that you care.
@JohnBoyega not the smartest thing to say but you've owned up to it very well, bruddah. And being able to recognise a wrong counts for much.
Phew.
