Robert Aramayo Stuns at BAFTAs, Wins Best Actor Over DiCaprio and Chalamet

British actor Robert Aramayo achieved a significant upset at the 2026 British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), winning the Best Actor award for his performance in I Swear. He beat out a formidable lineup of Hollywood stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet, Ethan Hawke, Jesse Plemons, and Michael B. Jordan .

I Swear and Aramayo’s Performance

I Swear tells the true story of John Davidson, a Tourette’s syndrome campaigner, and his struggle against societal ostracism in 1980s Scotland . Aramayo’s portrayal of Davidson resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning him the prestigious award.

Aramayo’s Reaction and Acceptance Speech

Aramayo, 33, appeared visibly shocked by his win, expressing his disbelief during his acceptance speech. “I absolutely can’t believe it. I can’t believe that I can look at people like you and be in the same award category as you, let alone that I am still standing here,” he said, specifically acknowledging DiCaprio in the audience . He also thanked the film’s director, Kirk Jones, casting agent Lauren Evans, and John Davidson himself.

Previous Recognition and Rising Star Award

In addition to the Best Actor BAFTA, Aramayo also won the EE Rising Star Award – a fan-voted award – on the same night . He has previously received the British Independent Film Award for Best Starring Performance and the ALFS Breakthrough Actor of the Year Award at the London Critics Circle Film Awards.

Other BAFTA Winners

Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another was the night’s biggest winner, taking home six BAFTAs, including Best Film and Best Director. Jessie Buckley was named Best Actress for her role in the Shakespeare biopic Hamnet .

I Swear premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September and was released in the UK in October. It recently had a US release, making it eligible for consideration at next year’s Academy Awards.