Full Breakdown
K-Pop Demon Hunters' "Golden" to Shine at BAFTA Awards
2/5/2026, 11:45:41 AM
Performance at the BAFTA Film Awards
The animated film "KPop Demon Hunters," produced by Netflix, will feature a live performance of its main theme song "Golden" at the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) on February 22, 2026. The performance will be delivered by the voices of the film's main characters—EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami—who portray Rumi, Mira, and Zoey in the fictional girl group HUNTR/X. This marks the trio's first live performance outside the United States, adding a significant global spotlight to the film, which has already achieved remarkable success on streaming platforms.
Despite its popularity, "KPop Demon Hunters" was not nominated for any BAFTA awards due to its failure to meet the U.K. theatrical release requirement. However, the BAFTA committee has invited the singers to perform as a recognition of the film's cultural impact and its unprecedented success, which includes over 500 million streams worldwide since its release in June 2025.
Cultural Impact and Achievements
"Golden" has emerged as a significant cultural phenomenon, becoming the most-streamed song of 2026 with over 4 billion streams. It previously made history by spending eight consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking it as the first female K-pop song to achieve this feat. Additionally, "Golden" won the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media, further solidifying its status in the music industry.
Emma Baehr, BAFTA’s executive director of awards and content, praised the film's influence, stating, "KPop Demon Hunters has captivated audiences of all ages worldwide with a remarkable influence." She emphasized that the performance would celebrate the film's global resonance and the role music has played in its success.
Official Statements & Responses
The performers expressed their excitement about the upcoming BAFTA stage, stating, "Performing at the EE BAFTA Film Awards is a golden moment that our younger selves could never have imagined! We’re so proud to represent Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters and spread the film’s positive message to fans around the globe." This sentiment reflects the trio's appreciation for the opportunity to showcase their work on such a prestigious platform.
Criticism & Opposition
While the invitation to perform at the BAFTAs is a significant honor, some critics have noted the unusual nature of the performance given the film's lack of nominations. The decision to include "KPop Demon Hunters" in the ceremony, despite its ineligibility, has sparked discussions about the criteria for recognition at major awards.
What's Next
Following the BAFTA performance, "Golden" is also a leading contender for Best Original Song at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. The anticipation surrounding both events highlights the film's ongoing influence and the potential for further accolades in the near future.
The BAFTA ceremony will take place at London’s Royal Festival Hall, hosted by Alan Cumming, and will be broadcast live on the BBC in the U.K. and E! in the U.S., allowing fans worldwide to witness this historic moment for K-pop and animated cinema.
