At the BAFTA Awards 2026, Robert Aramayo captured attention by winning both the Leading Actor award and the public-voted Rising Star Award. The ceremony, held this year in Britain, celebrated Aramayo’s performance in the biographical drama I Swear, bringing focus to the story of Tourette syndrome through a heartfelt portrayal. His acceptance speech included a notable tribute to Ethan Hawke, highlighting the impact Hawke’s words had on him early in his career.
Robert Aramayo’s Double Triumph at BAFTA 2026
Robert Aramayo’s success this year marked a significant milestone in his career. He won the Leading Actor award for his role in I Swear and also took home the Rising Star Award, which is decided by public vote. Aramayo plays John Davidson, a man diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome, whose personal story forms the emotional core of the film. Directed and written by Kirk Jones, the movie sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals living with this condition, especially during their youth when understanding was limited.
In his acceptance remarks for the Leading Actor award, Aramayo expressed disbelief and gratitude. He said,
“I absolutely can’t believe this, that I’m looking at people like you and I’m in the same category as you. Never mind that I’m still here. Wow, oh my word. Right, I want to get this right.”
He further thanked key collaborators including Kirk Jones and Lauren Evans, and acknowledged the strength of the competition, which featured nominees such as Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, Michael B. Jordan, and Jesse Plemons.
Significance of Aramayo’s Ethan Hawke BAFTA Tribute
During his speech, Aramayo honored Ethan Hawke’s influence on his acting journey. He recalled attending a talk Hawke gave at Juilliard, where the actor discussed sustaining a long career by protecting one’s craft and avoiding harmful habits. Aramayo shared,
“When I was in school, Ethan Hawke came in to speak to us at Juilliard, and then he gave an amazing talk on longevity as an actor, about protecting your instrument and avoiding self-destructive behaviors. 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 public recognition visibly moved Hawke, who was present at the event.
Aramayo’s appreciation extended beyond his professional influences; when accepting the Rising Star Award, he expressed heartfelt thanks to his family and partner. He joked about hoping not to drop the award as he had done previously, saying,
“My actual family, who support me all the time, who are amazing. I can see my dad up there now and my mom and my sister. And my amazing partner. I love you all so much.”
The Story Behind I Swear and Its Impact
I Swear tells the true story of John Davidson, who navigated life with Tourette’s syndrome amid the misunderstandings of 1980s Britain. The film explores his adolescence and adulthood, highlighting the lack of awareness about the condition during that era. Aramayo described Davidson as the most remarkable man he has met, emphasizing the film’s goal of raising empathy and support for those living with Tourette’s worldwide.
Critics and audiences have responded positively to I Swear, with the film earning over eight stars on IMDb and receiving numerous award nominations. It is currently available to watch on Prime Video in select locations and on Apple TV, enabling a wider audience to engage with this moving narrative. The drama’s synopsis reads,
“I Swear is the powerful true-life story of Tourette Syndrome campaigner John Davidson. In a funny and moving account of his experiences, the story follows John throughout his adolescence and early adulthood and explores what was a little known and entirely misunderstood condition in 1980s Britain.”
Other Nominees and the Rising Star Competition
In addition to Aramayo’s victory in the Rising Star category, Miles Caton, Chase Infiniti, Archie Madekwe, and Posy Sterling also received nominations. The BAFTA Awards 2026 brought together a competitive group of emerging talents alongside accomplished actors, reflecting the diversity and depth of contemporary cinema.
Robert Aramayo’s dual wins and his public tribute to Ethan Hawke highlight the mix of respect, inspiration, and emerging artistry that defined this year’s event. His work with Kirk Jones on I Swear not only earned critical acclaim but also contributed to a broader conversation about inclusion and understanding of neurological conditions, underscoring the power of film to educate and connect.
