While on stage at the BAFTAs to present the award for Best Lead Actress, Daniel Kaluuya remembered his friend Jamal Edwards, who tragically passed earlier this year.

Edwards died after having a sudden heart attack in February. The tragedy has rocked the entertainment industry, especially in Britain where he was so influential.

Kaluuya greeted those in attendance and made a brief but powerful tribute to Edwards, saying “Eternal life to Jamal Edwards,” before introducing the nominees for Best Leading Actress. Kaluuya allowed the crowd to react in applause and remembrance of the influential music mogul. The crowd and Kaluuya were emotional, in a fitting show of remembrance for Edwards.

Edwards was a pioneering force in music, founding the revolutionary SBTV and launching the careers of some of the biggest artists to come out of the UK.

Artists he worked with include chart-topping singer Ed Sheeran and legendary British rapper Skepta. Edwards also had various charitable ties to his community through the Prince Trust that he founded, which helped young people fond their own companies.

Edwards touched many with his talent and presence and as evidenced by the reaction of the tribute, will be remembered for his accomplishments as a music guru and as a person.

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