In a night of surprises, the Bafta 2026 ceremony saw Robert Aramayo win best actor for his role in I Swear, while Jessie Buckley took best actress for Hamnet. The biggest shock came when Aramayo's name was announced, with the actor appearing speechless and fighting back tears during his acceptance speech. Fellow nominees, including Leonardo DiCaprio, were visibly thrilled for him.
The best film award went to One Battle After Another, defeating Hamnet and Sinners. Director Paul Thomas Anderson, accepting the award, told those who say films aren't good to 'piss off' and expressed a desire to go to a bar. Producer Sara Murphy paid tribute to Adam Somner, who was clearly beloved by the team.
The ceremony was described as 'weird' by critics, with a lengthy monologue and much of the event presented in montage form. A man with Tourette syndrome reportedly shouted a swearword at Paddington Bear, adding to the unconventional atmosphere. Despite the oddities, the best film winner was widely praised, with Peter Bradshaw noting that the best film won best film.
The best British film category was considered stronger than the main lineup, but the overall result was hard to argue with. Jessie Buckley's win for Hamnet was less surprising, though her acceptance speech, which included a mention of her 'nuclear' fake tan during her first trip to London, was noted for going on a bit.
