In a breathtaking upset at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, relatively unknown actor Robert Aramayo claimed the prestigious Best Actor trophy, defeating an elite field of Hollywood heavyweights including Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. The emotional victory ceremony at London’s Royal Festival Hall witnessed one of the most surprising outcomes in the award show’s history.
Aramayo earned the distinguished honor for his transformative portrayal of real-life Tourette syndrome advocate John Davidson in the period drama ‘I Swear,’ set in 1980s Scotland. The actor’s deeply moving performance surpassed those of established nominees including Ethan Hawke, Jesse Plemons, and Michael B. Jordan in what many are calling the year’s most dramatic awards season moment.
Visibly overwhelmed during his acceptance speech, Aramayo expressed profound disbelief at his recognition. ‘I absolutely cannot comprehend this moment,’ the tearful actor addressed his fellow nominees. ‘Standing among artists I’ve admired for years feels surreal enough—to actually receive this award exceeds my wildest imagination.’
The evening proved doubly triumphant for Aramayo, who earlier received the EE Rising Star Award, signaling his emergence as a formidable new talent. The film itself garnered additional recognition with casting director Lauren Evans winning her category, though ‘I Swear’ ultimately lost the Outstanding British Film award to ‘Hamnet.’
The biographical drama chronicles Davidson’s journey as a young man navigating severe Tourette syndrome during an era when the neurological condition remained widely misunderstood. The film powerfully depicts his personal struggles and subsequent transformation into a prominent advocacy figure.
Notably, Davidson himself attended the ceremony’s initial portion but departed midway due to his condition’s involuntary vocalizations. Host Alan Cumming later acknowledged the situation, expressing gratitude for the audience’s understanding and compassion.
This landmark victory represents Aramayo’s first BAFTA nomination and win, building upon previous accolades including the British Independent Film Award for Best Lead Performance and the London Critics’ Circle Breakthrough Performer award. The ‘Rings of Power’ star’s unexpected triumph has instantly repositioned him within the industry’s highest echelons.