Robert Aramayo was visibly stunned after being named Best Leading Actor at the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards.
The 33-year-old actor took home the prize Sunday night at London’s Royal Festival Hall for his portrayal of John Davidson, a prominent campaigner for Tourette syndrome awareness, in director Kirk Jones’ drama I Swear. Aramayo triumphed over a heavyweight field that included Leonardo DiCaprio for One Battle After Another, Michael B. Jordan for Sinners, Timothee Chalamet for Marty Supreme, Ethan Hawke for Blue Moon, and Jesse Plemons for Bugonia.
Presented with the award by Kerry Washington, Aramayo appeared overwhelmed. “I absolutely can’t believe this,” he told the audience. “I can’t believe that I’m looking at people like you. And in the same academy as you, never mind that I’m a studier.”
He went on to thank director Kirk Jones for his vision and collaboration, as well as casting director Lauren Evans and producers Molly Cowan and Danny Streisand. Aramayo also acknowledged Studio Canal, Bankside and the many individuals he met while researching the role. “I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award. I really, really cannot,” he said.
Aramayo praised his fellow nominees, calling the category “incredible,” and singled out Ethan Hawke as a formative influence. Reflecting on his time at The Juilliard School in New York, he recalled Hawke speaking to students about sustaining a long-acting career and protecting one’s craft. “He gave an amazing talk on longevity as an actor, about protecting your instrument and avoiding self-destructive behaviours,” Aramayo said. “It had a great impact on everyone in that room.”
“To be in this category with you tonight is incredible,” he added, addressing Hawke directly. “Thank you, Ethan.”
Earlier in the evening, Aramayo had also collected the EE BAFTA Rising Star Award, making it a career-defining night for the British actor.
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