Quick Read
- Robert Aramayo won both Leading Actor and Rising Star awards at the BAFTAs on February 22, 2026.
- He is the first actor in BAFTA history to achieve this double win in the same year.
- Aramayo was recognized for his role as John Davidson in the biographical drama ‘I Swear’.
- He beat out prominent actors including Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Ethan Hawke.
- ‘I Swear’ also won a BAFTA for Best Casting, highlighting its underdog success.
LONDON (Azat TV) – English actor Robert Aramayo achieved a historic double victory at the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) on February 22, 2026, taking home both the Leading Actor award and the Rising Star Award. His win for his compelling performance in the biographical drama ‘I Swear’ marked a significant upset over more established Hollywood names and is expected to propel his career to new heights.
Aramayo, 33, expressed genuine shock and emotion upon hearing his name announced by presenter Kerry Washington at London’s Royal Festival Hall. He beat a highly competitive field that included industry giants like Timothée Chalamet for ‘Marty Supreme,’ Leonardo DiCaprio for ‘One Battle After Another,’ Michael B. Jordan, Jesse Plemons, and Ethan Hawke for ‘Blue Moon,’ all of whom were nominated for the same roles at other major award shows. This achievement makes Aramayo the first actor ever to win both the Leading Actor and Rising Star categories in the same year, a testament to both critical recognition and public appeal, as the Rising Star award is voted for by the general public.
Robert Aramayo’s Unexpected Triumph at the BAFTAs
The win was particularly notable given the strong international competition. Aramayo’s portrayal of John Davidson, a real-life Scottish Tourette Syndrome campaigner, in ‘I Swear,’ resonated deeply with voters. During his acceptance speech, a visibly moved Aramayo thanked his fellow nominees, singling out Ethan Hawke for his profound influence. Aramayo recounted how Hawke’s lecture on longevity as an actor and avoiding self-destructive behaviors, delivered at Juilliard when Aramayo was a student, had a lasting impact. Hawke, 55, was visibly emotional in the audience, having been nominated for his role as American lyricist Lorenz Hart.
Prior to this BAFTA triumph, Aramayo was already recognized for his work, including a Best Lead Performance award at the British Independence Film Awards for ‘I Swear.’ He is also known for his role in ‘The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power,’ showcasing his range across television and film.
The Film ‘I Swear’ and Its Impact
‘I Swear’ emerged as a notable underdog success story at the BAFTAs. The film, which had a modest initial outlay of around £2.8 million—partially funded by its writer and director Kirk Jones selling his house—went on to gross £6.2 million in UK cinemas over an unusually long 16-week run. Beyond Aramayo’s two individual awards, ‘I Swear’ also secured a BAFTA for Best Casting, bringing its total wins to three.
The film’s subject, John Davidson, who lives with Tourette Syndrome, was present at the BAFTA ceremony. His involuntary tics, including expletive-filled outbursts, were heard throughout the evening, prompting host Alan Cumming to address the audience and television viewers, explaining the nature of Tourette Syndrome and asking for understanding. This unique presence further highlighted the film’s authenticity and its powerful message about the condition.
Aramayo’s Career Trajectory and Future Prospects
Robert Aramayo’s dual BAFTA win is widely seen as a pivotal moment in his career. It signifies a strong endorsement of his talent from both industry peers and the public, positioning him as a significant figure in British cinema. The surprise victory also contributed to a broader narrative at the BAFTAs of celebrating homegrown talent amidst a frequently debated balance between national and international recognition.
The ceremony itself saw ‘One Battle After Another’ take the top honor for Best Film, with Paul Thomas Anderson winning Best Director. Jessie Buckley won Leading Actress for ‘Hamnet.’ However, Aramayo’s win for a film that initially struggled for funding stands out as a powerful affirmation of independent filmmaking and the impact of a truly compelling performance.
Aramayo’s historic achievement underscores his emergence as a formidable talent capable of captivating audiences and critics alike, setting a new benchmark for British actors and likely opening doors to a more prominent and diverse range of roles in the global film industry.