Robert Aramayo's Historic BAFTA Double Win Stuns Industry, Delights Former Teachers
Standing on stage at the Royal Festival Hall in London, Robert Aramayo struggled to hold back tears as he accepted the Best Actor award at the 79th British Academy Film Awards. His first words, "wow," captured the sheer astonishment of the moment. The 33-year-old actor, who also clinched the EE Rising Star Award earlier that evening, became the first performer in BAFTA history to secure both prestigious accolades in a single night. In his own words, it was "unbelievable."
No Surprise for Former Drama Teacher
Watching from home, Andy Feetom, Aramayo's former drama teacher at Wyke College in Hull, felt no such disbelief. "For me, the rising star award was a foregone conclusion," Feetom remarked. "Everyone north of the Watford Gap will have been voting for him. I wasn't shocked at the best actor win either—why couldn't he win that? He's earned it; the lad's done great."
Feetom, who taught drama for 25 years, recalled Aramayo as one of the most talented students he had ever encountered. During Aramayo's A-level drama exam, the only advice Feetom could offer was to trim his performance to fit time limits, likening it to "shaving off gold." He added, "I can't remember the year I taught Rob or his grade, but I remember his performance. It was mesmerising. He was great then, as he is today."
From Hull to Juilliard: A Journey of Passion
Aramayo's passion for drama flourished both in and out of school, leading him to apply to Juilliard in New York after Googling "best drama school in the world." Feetom noted that financial concerns were brushed aside by Aramayo's father, who urged his son to "do whatever you can to get your arse over there." This determination paved the way for Aramayo's rigorous training and eventual breakthrough.
Mark Babych, artistic director at Hull Truck Theatre where Aramayo performed as a teen, viewed the BAFTA wins as the culmination of years of hard work. "He's worked so hard for himself but also for the people who have supported him," Babych said. "You saw his family on TV last night. I know his dad fairly well, and he's incredibly proud. Rob is a big family man, and I couldn't be more delighted."
Inspiring Future Generations in Hull
Babych hopes Aramayo's success will inspire young performers from Hull to pursue careers in the arts. "The acting bonfire was first lit in him when he saw other Hull actors on stage here," Babych recalled. "For young people now, what Rob's done gives them a great sense of inspiration. He's proven that if that's your passion, it can be done."
Julie Peaks, principal of Wyke Sixth Form College, echoed this sentiment, stating that Aramayo's "success comes as no surprise." She emphasized, "We all knew it was just a matter of time before the world recognised his extraordinary talent. Robert is a credit to his family, to Wyke, and to Hull. There's more success to come—this is only the beginning."
Award-Winning Role and Personal Triumph
Aramayo's dual awards were for his role as a man with Tourette syndrome in the film I Swear, a performance that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. His emotional acceptance speech highlighted the personal significance of the recognition, reflecting on his journey from learning his craft in Hull to achieving global acclaim.
The historic night not only celebrated Aramayo's individual achievements but also shone a spotlight on the vibrant arts community in Hull, demonstrating how local talent can ascend to international stages. As the industry continues to buzz about his unprecedented wins, one thing is clear: Robert Aramayo's star is firmly on the rise, with his former teachers and supporters cheering him on every step of the way.
