Viewers Slam ITV for Failing to Show Haydn Gwynne’s Full Olivier Awards Acceptance Speech

Olivier Awards viewers expressed disappointment with ITV on Sunday night for their decision to cut short Haydn Gwynne‘s acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress. Gwynne, posthumously awarded for her role as Stanley Baldwin in When Winston Went to War, had her award accepted by her son, Orlando.

The late Haydn Gwynne, known for her performances in productions like City of Angels and Billy Elliott, had a strong connection to the stage. Her son reflected on her dreams of winning an Olivier and how much she loved the theater.

Throughout her career, Gwynne received several Olivier and Tony nominations for her exceptional work. Her most recent role before her passing was in When Winston Went to War.

Gwynne’s sudden illness prevented her from performing in Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends at the Gielgud Theatre, where she had become a vital part of the close-knit company.

The respected actress passed away following a brief battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that included roles in Drop The Dead Donkey and The Windsors.

Sunset Boulevard dominated the awards, with Nicole Scherzinger winning Best Actress in a Musical and Tom Francis taking Best Actor in a Musical.

Andrew Scott’s play VANYA also received critical acclaim, with Scott embodying multiple characters in a modern interpretation of Chekhov’s classic.

Mark Gatiss won Best Actor for his portrayal of John Gielgud, while Will Close‘s performance as Gareth Southgate in Dear England earned him Best Supporting Actor.

Other winners included Sarah Snook for Best Actress, Jamie Lloyd for Best Director, and John Thorne‘s Dear England for the Best New Play award.

The ceremony featured notable presenters such as Dominic West and Michael Ball, celebrating the best of London‘s West End theater.