Robert Aramayo Wins BAFTA 2026 Best Actor, Beats DiCaprio and Chalamet

In one of the biggest surprises of the BAFTA Awards 2026, Robert Aramayo claimed the Best Leading Actor honour for his performance in I Swear, defeating heavyweight contenders Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. The unexpected victory marked a defining moment in Aramayo’s career and signalled a shift in the awards season narrative.

The 33-year-old actor from Hull had already won the EE Rising Star Award earlier in the evening. When his name was announced again for the top acting prize, he appeared visibly stunned, reflecting the surprise felt across the industry and among audiences worldwide.

A performance defined by restraint and authenticity

In I Swear, Aramayo portrays John Davidson, a Scottish activist living with severe Tourette’s syndrome. The role demanded emotional precision and sensitivity, given the condition’s historical misunderstanding and social stigma, particularly during the 1980s when the film is set.

Rather than leaning into dramatic exaggeration, Aramayo delivered a restrained and deeply human portrayal. Critics praised the performance for its empathy and realism, noting that its emotional impact stems from authenticity rather than theatrical intensity. The character’s struggles are presented with dignity, making the film both uncomfortable and compelling to watch.

For viewers familiar with Aramayo’s earlier roles — including young Ned Stark in Game of Thrones and Elrond in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power — the transformation is striking. His shift from fantasy epics to an intimate character study has been widely regarded as a career-defining move.

Emotional acceptance speech

Accepting the award, Aramayo expressed disbelief and gratitude. He acknowledged fellow nominee Ethan Hawke, recalling advice about protecting one’s craft — a gesture that reflected humility and respect within the acting community.

His speech resonated with viewers, reinforcing the sense that the win represented artistic sincerity rather than industry predictability.

From Hull roots to global recognition

Aramayo trained at Juilliard but began his journey at Hull Truck Youth Theatre, grounding him in performance traditions that emphasise authenticity and storytelling. His BAFTA win underscores how powerful performances in smaller, character-driven films can compete with major studio productions.

As I Swear expands its international release, Aramayo’s victory positions him firmly among the leading actors of his generation. The win also highlights a broader trend in global cinema: audiences and award bodies increasingly recognise nuanced storytelling over star power alone.

The BAFTA upset serves as a reminder that awards seasons remain unpredictable — and that powerful performances can redefine expectations overnight.