On the first night of its annual ceremony on Saturday, the Bafta Film Awards paid homage to Prince Philip.

From 1959 to 1965, the late royal served as the first president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

He died on Friday at the age of 99, causing an outpouring of sadness in the UK and the rest of the world.

The pre-recorded first night of the two-part Bafta awards show began with a salute to the Duke of Edinburgh, acknowledging his contribution to the organization.

She said, " "Before we begin tonight, we'd like to express our condolences on behalf of Bafta for His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh's death on Friday.

“Over 60 years ago, the duke was Bafta's first president, and he was the start of a line of royal patronage that continues today with his grandson, the Duke of Cambridge.

“In many respects, it was Prince Philip and Her Majesty the Queen's support during these years that helped Bafta — a leading arts charity — to continue in challenging times and to be here today in 2021 celebrating another outstanding year of achievement in film,” says Prince Philip."

From Prince Philip's involvement in 1973 to that of his daughter, Princess Royal, in 2001, Bafta has been connected to the royal family throughout its history.

Prince William was elected president of the Bafta in 2010 and has remained active in the organization since then, with former BBC director-general and FA chairman Greg Dyke serving as vice-president.

Prince William was supposed to attend both nights of this year's Bafta ceremony, but he opted out due to his grandfather's passing.

On the first night, he was scheduled to interview costume designer Jenny Beavan and make-up and hair designer Sharon Martin before giving a speech on Sunday honoring the industry.

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom took home two awards on the first night of the 2021 Baftas, with Tenet, Rocks, and Sound of Metal also taking home awards.

The first night of the Baftas was hosted by Clara Amfo, who was joined by actress Joanna Scanlan and critic Rhianna Dhillon.

The event will be hosted by Edith Bowman and Dermot O'Leary on Sunday night.