Robert Aramayo pulled off one of the biggest upsets in BAFTA history on Sunday night, winning the leading actor award over Hollywood heavyweights Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet, Ethan Hawke, Jesse Plemons and Michael B. Jordan. He was recognised for his portrayal of real-life Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson in Kirk Jones' film 'I Swear'.
An emotional Aramayo told the audience: 'I absolutely can't believe it, I can't believe that I'm looking at people like you, in the same category as you, never mind that I'm stood here. I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award.' He thanked director Jones and Davidson, and recalled a school visit from Hawke that inspired him.
Earlier in the evening, Aramayo also won the EE Rising Star Award, while 'I Swear' casting director Lauren Evans took the casting award. The film was nominated for outstanding British film but lost to 'Hamnet'. Set in 1980s Scotland, the film follows Davidson's journey from rejection to becoming a national advocate for Tourette syndrome.
Davidson attended the first half of the ceremony but left after several involuntary outbursts. Host Alan Cumming apologised to anyone offended and thanked the audience for their understanding. Emma McNally, CEO of Tourettes Action, praised the film for its compassionate portrayal of the condition.
The BAFTA win is Aramayo's first film BAFTA nomination. He had already won the British Independent Film Award for best lead performance and the ALFS Breakthrough Performer of the Year at the London Critics Circle Film Awards. 'I Swear' will be eligible for the Oscars next year after its recent US release.
