Robert Aramayo beats DiCaprio and Chalamet in major BAFTA upset

Robert Aramayo delivered one of the biggest surprises of the BAFTA Awards 2026 after beating a heavyweight Hollywood field to win best actor for his performance in I Swear.

The English actor appeared visibly stunned as his name was announced at the BAFTA Film Awards ceremony at London’s Royal Festival Hall, where he triumphed over nominees including Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, Timothée Chalamet, Jesse Plemons and Michael B. Jordan.

In Kirk Jones’s biographical drama, Aramayo portrays John Davidson, a Scottish campaigner living with severe Tourette syndrome.

“I absolutely can’t believe it, I can’t believe that I’m looking at people like you,” Aramayo told the audience, gesturing towards DiCaprio as he fought back tears. “I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award. I really, really cannot.”

Emotional moment on BAFTAs stage

The 33-year-old actor grew visibly emotional during his acceptance speech, thanking director Kirk Jones and Davidson, whose life story inspired the film.

Aramayo also shared a personal memory involving fellow nominee Ethan Hawke from his time at Juilliard.

“When I was in school, Ethan Hawke came in to speak to us at Juilliard and he gave an amazing talk on longevity as an actor,” he said. “It had a really great impact on everyone in that room. So to be in this category with you tonight is incredible. Thank you, Ethan.”

He wrapped up the speech with a modest sign-off: “OK, I’m going to stop talking now. Thank you so so so so much.”

Double victory on the night

Earlier in the evening, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power star also won the EE Rising Star Award, which is voted for by the public.

John Davidson attended the BAFTAs in support of the film. Following Aramayo’s Rising Star win, host Alan Cumming reminded viewers that Tourette syndrome is a disability and that tics are involuntary, after Davidson’s strong language was heard during the ceremony.

According to Variety, Davidson later left the event of his own accord during the second half of the evening.