On Sunday night, Robert Aramayo stunned audiences by winning the BAFTA Award for leading actor, surpassing a star-studded lineup including Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, and Timothée Chalamet. His triumph came for his portrayal of John Davidson, a campaigner for Tourette syndrome, in Kirk Jones’ film I Swear, marking a major upset in the awards ceremony.
An Extraordinary Victory Against Hollywood Titans
Aramayo’s win was notable not only because of the prestige of the BAFTAs but also due to the formidable competition. Alongside him were Leonardo DiCaprio nominated for One Battle After Another, Ethan Hawke in Blue Moon, Timothée Chalamet for Marty Supreme, Michael B. Jordan in Sinners, and Jesse Plemons for “Bugonia.” His win represents an unexpected breakthrough given the prominence of these established actors.
During his acceptance speech, Aramayo expressed deep emotion:
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,
he said tearfully, also referencing his role as Elrond in Prime Video’s
Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,
and added,
I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award. I really, really cannot. Everyone in this category blows me away.
Robert Aramayo’s heartfelt words highlighted his humility and respect for the other nominees.
Gratitude and Meaningful Connections
Beyond thanking director and writer Kirk Jones as well as John Davidson, Aramayo shared a personal story that connected his journey to the guidance of veteran actor Ethan Hawke.
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, about protecting your instrument and avoiding self destructive behaviors,
Aramayo recalled.
And 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.
This acknowledgment revealed Aramayo’s gratitude and the mentorship that influenced his career.
Still overwhelmed by the moment, he closed his speech with simple thanks:
OK I’m going to stop talking now. Thank you so so so so much.
Additional Recognition at the BAFTAs and Awards Season Context
Alongside his leading actor win, Robert Aramayo also claimed the EE Rising Star Award during the ceremony, underscoring his rising status in the film industry. The I Swear casting director, Lauren Evans, took home the casting award, while co-star Peter Mullan received a nomination for supporting actor. The film itself was nominated for outstanding British film but lost to Hamnet.
Set in 1980s Scotland, I Swear tells the story of John Davidson, who struggles with severe Tourette syndrome amid widespread misunderstanding and rejection. The film follows Davidson’s journey from hardship to becoming a prominent advocate for the disorder. Davidson attended the BAFTA ceremony, which was graced by the presence of William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales. However, due to involuntary outbursts during the event, he left midway. BAFTA host Alan Cumming publicly apologized to anyone offended and thanked the audience for their understanding, demonstrating sensitivity towards Davidson’s condition.
The Significance of Aramayo’s BAFTA Achievement
This BAFTA is Aramayo’s first nomination and win at the Film Awards, building on his previous honors including the British Independent Film Award for best lead performance and the ALFS Breakthrough Performer of the Year at the London Critics Circle Film Awards. These accolades together mark a breakthrough moment for the actor, signaling his entrance into the forefront of British and international cinema.
With a U.S. release only recently occurring, I Swear is now eligible for the upcoming Oscars, having premiered at TIFF last September and been released in the U.K. in October 2025. Aramayo’s BAFTA win and the film’s growing recognition suggest strong momentum as it vies for further awards and attention in the coming months.
