Bafta 2026 Red Carpet Unfolds as Stars Gather for Film Awards Ceremony
The glitz and glamour of the British film industry were on full display as celebrities from around the world walked the iconic red carpet ahead of the 2026 Bafta Film Awards. The prestigious event, held at the Royal Festival Hall within London's Southbank Centre on Sunday, 22 February, marked the 79th edition of these celebrated awards, drawing nominees and guests for what is widely regarded as the biggest night in British cinema.
Leading Nominations and Contenders
Paul Thomas Anderson's dramatic film One Battle After Another emerged as the frontrunner, securing an impressive 14 nominations. The movie, which tells the story of a washed-up revolutionary searching for his missing teenage daughter, is up for key awards including Best Film, Best Director, and acting accolades for Leonardo DiCaprio (Best Actor) and Chase Infiniti (Best Actress).
Hot on its heels is Ryan Coogler's vampire action-horror Sinners, which garnered 13 nominations. The film features Michael B. Jordan as twin brothers who return to their hometown only to confront a greater evil, making it the second-most nominated production of the year.
Competitive Acting Categories
In the Best Actress category, Jessie Buckley is widely tipped as a favorite for her role in Chloe Zhao's adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's novel Hamnet. However, she faces stiff competition from fellow nominees Chase Infiniti and Rose Byrne, who stars in If I Had Legs I'd Kick You.
The Best Actor race is equally fierce, with Timothée Chalamet (Marty Supreme) contending against Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, and British rising star Robert Aramayo (I Swear).
Host and Broadcast Details
This year's ceremony is hosted by Alan Cumming, who takes over from David Tennant after his two-year tenure in 2024 and 2025. The event commenced earlier than its scheduled broadcast time, kicking off around 5pm, with television coverage on BBC One starting from 7pm, ensuring audiences across the nation can tune in to the festivities.
The red carpet arrivals showcased a dazzling array of fashion and talent, highlighting the international appeal and significance of the Bafta awards in celebrating cinematic excellence. As the ceremony progresses, all eyes are on the nominees, with anticipation building over who will take home the coveted trophies.
