English actor Robert Aramayo, in a night full of mass shocks, emerged as the unexpected star of the 2026 BAFTAs, beating out some of Hollywood’s biggest icons to take home the award for Leading Actor.
Known by many for his role in The rings of powerAramayo stole the spotlight from fellow nominees Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet and Ethan Hawke with his powerful performance in the British film. I swear.
The evening was historic for the young artist, who also received the Rising Star award that same night.
This double victory makes him the first person in BAFTA history to win both the Emerging Talent Award and the Leading Actor Award at a single ceremony.
Aramayo went on stage crying and admitted that he was in total shock.
“I honestly can’t believe I’ve won this award. I really, really can’t. Everyone in this category blows me away,” he told the audience at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
During his speech, he shared a touching story about fellow nominee Ethan Hawke, recalling a conversation he had with Juilliard when Aramayo was a student.
He thanked Hawke for his advice on longevity and how to avoid self-destructive habits, and noted that being in the same category as his previous inspiration was an incredible moment.
He also dedicated his Rising Star win to John Davidson, the real-life activist he plays in the film, calling him the most extraordinary man he has ever met.
Directed by Kirk Jones, I swear is set in 1980s Scotland and follows Davidson’s journey as a young man with severe Tourette syndrome.
The film has been praised by charities such as Tourettes Action for its compassionate approach, moving away from stereotypes to focus on resilience and the reality of living with the condition.
The ceremony itself, hosted by Alan Cumming, was attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Aramayo’s path to the BAFTA was paved with previous wins at the British Independent Film Awards and the London Critics Circle.
Although I swear lost the Best British Film category to Hamnetthe film now looks ahead to next year’s Oscars following its recent release in the United States.
