The lines between animation, music, and cultural phenomena are blurring, and the performance by the singing voices of Netflix’s _KPop Demon Hunters_ at the BAFTA Film Awards is a prime example. This wasn’t just a musical interlude; it was a statement about the global reach and influence of animated storytelling, demonstrating how it can transcend traditional film categories and captivate audiences worldwide.
Key Points
- EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, the voices behind the fictional group Huntr/x from _KPop Demon Hunters_, performed their hit song “Golden” at the BAFTA Film Awards.
- This marked the first live performance of “Golden” outside the U.S. .
- The performance was well-received, with audience members, including celebrities like Chase Infiniti, seen enjoying the music.
- Despite its popularity and critical acclaim (including sweeping the Annie Awards), _KPop Demon Hunters_ was ineligible for a BAFTA Film Award due to its lack of a qualifying theatrical release.
Huntr/x Takes London
The Royal Festival Hall in London was treated to a vibrant performance by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, the vocal powerhouses behind the animated K-pop group Huntr/x from _KPop Demon Hunters_. On February 22, 2026, they delivered the first-ever live rendition of their chart-topping song “Golden” outside of the United States . Dressed in shades of red, brown, and gold, the trio, accompanied by dancers, brought the animated world to life.
BAFTA Reacts
The audience’s response was overwhelmingly positive. Cameras captured attendees nodding their heads, moving to the beat, and generally embracing the energy of the performance . The performance underscored the broad appeal of _KPop Demon Hunters_, which tells the story of women using their singing to create a magical barrier against demons. Even though _KPop Demon Hunters_ wasn’t up for any BAFTAs due to not having a theatrical release, its presence was felt.
Animated Domination
The performance at the BAFTAs comes on the heels of _KPop Demon Hunters’_ impressive showing at the Annie Awards, where it swept the competition. These accolades highlight the growing recognition of animation as a significant force in entertainment. The film’s success, despite bypassing traditional theatrical distribution, speaks volumes about the power of streaming platforms like Netflix in shaping popular culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did KPop Demon Hunters perform at the BAFTAs if it wasn’t nominated?
- Although _KPop Demon Hunters_ didn’t meet the criteria for a BAFTA Film Award nomination because it lacked a theatrical release, the popularity of the film and its music led to the invitation for EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami to perform “Golden” at the ceremony .
- Who are EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami?
- They are the singing voices behind the characters in the animated film _KPop Demon Hunters_. They form the group Huntr/x within the film’s narrative and performed the hit song “Golden” at the BAFTA Film Awards .
- Where did the performance take place?
- The performance occurred at London’s Royal Festival Hall on February 22, 2026, during the BAFTA Film Awards ceremony. The award show was hosted by Alan Cumming .
- How was the performance received by the audience?
- The performance was very well-received. Audience members were seen nodding along, shaking their shoulders, and generally enjoying the music .
The Bigger Picture
- The inclusion of a performance from an animated film at the BAFTAs signals a growing acceptance and celebration of animation within mainstream award ceremonies.
- _KPop Demon Hunters’ _BAFTA performance highlights the increasing global influence of K-pop and its integration into diverse forms of media, including animation.
- The film’s success, despite not meeting traditional theatrical release requirements, underscores the evolving landscape of film distribution and the power of streaming platforms.
- The positive audience reaction, with figures like Chase Infiniti singing along , demonstrates the broad appeal and cultural impact of _KPop Demon Hunters_.
Research Sources
Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com
