And the award for Best Leading Actor goes toRobert Aramayo! This win was a surprise package at the BAFTAs 2026. For his portrayal of Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson in the British film, ‘I Swear,’ Robert Aramayo won against fellow nominees Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. Aramayo also took home the Rising Star Award, becoming the first performer in BAFTA history to win the emerging talent prize and Leading Actor award in one night.Robert Aramayo is previously best known for playing the role of Eddard Stark in ‘Game of Thrones’ as well as starring in psychological thriller ‘Behind Her Eyes.’ He also plays Elrond in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.“I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award. I really, really cannot. Everyone in this category blows me away,” said the actor.
Robert Aramayo thanks Ethan Hawke in his speech
He also thanked fellow nominee Ethan Hawke for inspiring his journey. “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,” he said before adding, “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.”
More about ‘I Swear’
British film ‘I Swear’ chronicles the life of John Davidson, a Tourette’s campaigner who has struggled with the condition since aged 12. The film is a mix of heartwarming comedy and drama about navigating life with a misunderstood condition. Aramayo plays John Davidson in the film. In his Rising Star speech, Aramayo said John Davidson, whom he portrayed in the film ‘I Swear’, was the “most remarkable man” he ever met.
