As the countdown to the 2026 BAFTA Awards intensifies, all eyes are on Timothée Chalamet, the frontrunner for Best Actor for his role in the much-acclaimed film *Marty Supreme*. However, a compelling underdog may just snatch the coveted statuette from him: British actor Robert Aramayo, whose powerful performance in *I Swear* has garnered significant buzz.
The Contenders
This year’s nominees for Best Actor read like a who’s who of Hollywood royalty. Alongside Chalamet are Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, Ethan Hawke, and Jesse Plemons—all established names with a track record of award-winning performances. Yet, it is Aramayo, a relative newcomer, who is capturing the imagination of critics and audiences alike.
Chalamet’s role in *Marty Supreme*, a film that has received an impressive 11 nominations including Best Picture, has placed him firmly in the spotlight. His earlier triumphs at the Golden Globes have only solidified his status as the one to beat. But Aramayo’s nomination has sparked conversations about the potential for an upset in this competitive category.
A Performance to Remember
In *I Swear*, Aramayo portrays John Davidson, a young boy grappling with the challenges of severe Tourette’s syndrome during the 1980s. His performance deftly balances humour with raw emotion, giving audiences a deeply moving insight into Davidson’s life at a time when awareness of the condition was minimal. Critics have hailed it as a standout performance, one that not only deserves recognition but could also pave the way for Aramayo’s ascent to stardom.
The actor’s journey to this point has been remarkable. Having previously appeared in high-profile projects such as *Game of Thrones*, where he played a younger version of Eddard Stark, and *The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power*, Aramayo’s versatility is on full display. Currently, he is also wowing audiences on stage at the Royal Court in *Guess How Much I Love You?*, further showcasing his range as a performer.
The BAFTAs: A Platform for Surprises
BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip remarked on the significance of being nominated, stating, “If you are nominated for a BAFTA, you have every chance of winning.” This sentiment echoes the surprise victory of Joanna Scanlan in 2022, who triumphed over Lady Gaga and Alana Haim for her role in *After Love*. Such precedent suggests that Aramayo could very well be on the path to an unexpected win, echoing Scanlan’s triumph.
With the prestige of the BAFTAs, Aramayo’s nomination not only highlights his talent but also draws attention to the importance of diverse storytelling in cinema. His role sheds light on conditions that have historically been misunderstood, and the film’s reception indicates a growing appetite for narratives that challenge societal norms.
Why it Matters
The potential for Robert Aramayo to win the Best Actor award at the BAFTAs is more than just a personal milestone for him; it represents a broader shift in the film industry towards valuing fresh talent and diverse narratives. As audiences increasingly seek authenticity and representation in storytelling, Aramayo’s success could inspire a new wave of actors and filmmakers to share their own unique stories. In an industry often dominated by established names, his rise serves as a reminder that true artistry can emerge from the most unexpected places.
