The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards delivered a stunning upset, catapulting Robert Aramayo into the spotlight. Few predicted the Hull-born actor would triumph over a formidable field including Timothée Chalamet, Ethan Hawke, and Leonardo DiCaprio for his role in *I Swear*.
Aramayo’s visible shock as his name echoed through London’s Royal Festival Hall was palpable. He fought back tears during his acceptance speech, his voice thick with emotion as he spoke of the film’s profound impact.
The evening was already remarkable for Aramayo, having earlier claimed the EE Rising Star Award. This public-voted prize has historically foreshadowed the ascent of future stars like James McAvoy, Kristen Stewart, and Daniel Kaluuya.
Alan Cumming hosted a ceremony marked by fierce competition. Paul Thomas Anderson’s *One Battle After Another* entered the night as the frontrunner with 14 nominations, and ultimately secured a Best Director win – only his second BAFTA to date.
Aramayo dedicated his win to Adam Somner, a British assistant director who worked on *I Swear* while courageously battling cancer. Somner tragically passed away in 2024 at the age of 57, leaving a lasting legacy.
*Hamnet*, Chloé Zhao’s adaptation starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, was named Outstanding British Film. The win celebrated the breadth and strength of British filmmaking, overcoming strong contenders like *I Swear* and *The Ballad of Wallis Island*.
In a historic moment for Norwegian cinema, *Sentimental Value* became the first film from Norway to win a BAFTA, securing the award for Best Film Not in the English Language. Director Joachim Trier accepted the honor with characteristic humor, playfully acknowledging Norway’s more renowned prowess in skiing.
Throughout the night, *One Battle After Another* and *Sinners* engaged in a compelling battle for dominance across the major categories, creating a night of suspense and celebration.
