Robert Aramayo's Bafta Nomination: A Down-to-Earth Star Rises
British actor Robert Aramayo, known for his role as Elrond in 'The Rings of Power', has had an extraordinary start to the year, balancing a West End debut with two Bafta nominations. His performance in the Tourette's syndrome drama 'I Swear' has earned him a spot in the Best Actor category alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and other Hollywood heavyweights.
A Humble Beginning
When Aramayo discovered his Bafta nomination, he was in the midst of a mundane household chore. "I was literally doing the dishes!" he recalls, describing how he watched the announcement on YouTube in disbelief. This down-to-earth moment contrasts sharply with the glitz of the upcoming ceremony, where he will suit up for the event on Sunday night.
A Packed Schedule
The Hull-born 33-year-old has faced a whirlwind month. He made his stage debut in 'Guess How Much I Love You' at the Royal Court, a play dealing with emotional ultrasound results, just a week before his Bafta recognition. Nominated in both the Best Actor and EE Rising Star categories, Aramayo is competing against notable names like Chase Infiniti, making it a period of intense juggling between promotional duties and evening performances.
In one striking example of his hectic life, Aramayo attended a celebratory party in Mayfair for Rising Star nominees immediately after leaving the stage. "I'm absolutely knackered, I won't lie to you," he admits. "It's a bit of a mental time. You know when people keep adding more to your plate? I guess I'm going to find out how full it can get."
The Heart of 'I Swear'
'I Swear' is set in 1980s Galashiels and follows the early life of Tourette's campaigner John Davidson. The film explores his development of tics, which evolve into involuntary swearing, and the misunderstandings from teachers and parents who saw him as disruptive or rebellious. With support from characters played by Maxine Peake and Peter Mullan, the story avoids schmaltz, instead offering a smart look at Davidson's frustrations without mockery or pity.
The film has received five Bafta nominations, including Outstanding British Film and Best Original Screenplay for writer-director Kirk Jones. Aramayo never anticipated such acclaim when cast in 2024. "The first thing on my mind was John," he says. "I met incredible people with Tourette's and really care about their stories. It's so lovely to see this recognition."
Authenticity and Responsibility
Jones initially considered casting someone with Tourette's but found it would be too demanding. Instead, the production consulted extensively with individuals living with the condition, and Davidson approved Aramayo for the role. Aramayo focused on Davidson's emotional journey, emphasizing his physicality and how he navigates the world, rather than just the tics. "It was about settling into John's centre of gravity," he explains.
Davidson is thrilled about the film's success, as it aligns with his mission to raise awareness and improve education for Tourette's. Aramayo stays in regular contact with him and has formed a close bond with the real-life Dottie, though they avoid discussing the film in their conversations.
Looking Ahead
For Bafta morning, Aramayo plans a lie-in, a gym session to clear his mind, and then following instructions for the event. Whether he wins or not, Monday will bring a quieter pace as the Baftas conclude and his play ends its run. "It'll be radio silence!" he laughs, expressing a mix of trepidation and relief at the prospect of rest.
