Actor David Oyelowo calls for UK film diversity

Oyelowo’s words were echoed by British actor David Harewood, who also moved to the US to seek better opportunities.

“It’s something we’ve talked about for many years,” the Homeland star told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.

“The [BFI] data is proving the fears that many of us had that there are structural problems within the industry that are preventing us from displaying aspiration black characters.

“A whole swathe of black life is not being catered for so we have to go – as I am now – abroad to find roles where we can play authoritative characters.”

Speaking at the premiere of her new movie Moonlight at the London Film Festival, British actress Naomie Harris also said she had to go to the US to further her career.

“I definitely think that for my career to have continued I definitely had to go to America and I’m really glad that I did, there is just a lot more material,” she said.

“But I live here, I never left London and I’m able to work here as well as there and I couldn’t ask for more.”

Harris, who plays Moneypenny in the James Bond films, added that she was not surprised by the BFI research.

She said: “It’s not surprising because that’s what we see, we see a lack of diversity. But what I think is really positive is that is changing and I think this year in particular shows that.”

The BFI London Film Festival runs until 16 October.