British actor Robert Aramayo, originally from Hull, delivered a stunning upset at the Bafta Awards on Sunday, 22 February, by securing the Best Actor prize amid fierce competition that included Timothée Chalamet. The event took place at London’s Royal Festival Hall and saw Aramayo honoured for his portrayal of John Davidson in the film I Swear.
His win was unexpected, as he competed against widely recognised actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet, Ethan Hawke, Michael B. Jordan, and Jesse Plemons. Aramayo’s performance as John Davidson, a real-life campaigner for Tourette syndrome, earned him both critical acclaim and recognition on this prestigious platform.
Honouring John Davidson and Bringing Awareness to Tourette Syndrome
In I Swear, Aramayo depicts John Davidson’s journey with Tourette syndrome, capturing the challenges of developing involuntary tics and outbursts during his school years in 1980s Galashiels. Davidson, present at the awards, was visibly part of the moment despite his audible tics causing some misunderstanding among viewers at home who initially mistook his involuntary shouting for heckling.
Davidson’s public service was also highlighted; he was awarded an MBE in 2019 for his dedicated efforts to raise awareness about the condition after showing symptoms since his teenage years. The film’s authentic representation brought important visibility to the public about Tourette syndrome and its impact on those living with it.
Aramayo’s Emotional Acceptance Speeches
Upon hearing his name announced, Aramayo appeared genuinely shocked. As Kerry Washington presented the award, Aramayo expressed,
“I absolutely can’t believe this. I can’t believe I’m here looking at people like you, in the same category as you,”
in reference to Leonardo DiCaprio in the audience.
“Never mind being stood up here.”
He thanked the creative team behind I Swear, acknowledging director Kirk Jones and casting agent Lauren Evans, who had already received the Best Casting prize earlier that evening. Reflecting on the achievement, Aramayo said,
“I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award. I really, really cannot. Everyone in this category blows me away.”
He also shared a personal anecdote about a past encounter with actor Ethan Hawke while studying at Juilliard, recalling a speech Hawke gave that inspired him and his classmates. Aramayo said,
“He gave an amazing talk on longevity as an actor, about protecting your instrument, and avoiding self-destructive behaviours and it had a great impact on everyone in that room so to be in this category with you tonight is incredible. Thank you Ethan.”
Rising Star Recognition and Career Highlights
Earlier the same night, Aramayo received the EE Rising Star Bafta for his role in I Swear, marking his second major recognition of the evening. His growing career also includes his role as Elrond in Prime Video’s series The Rings of Power, showcasing his versatility and rising prominence in the industry.
This year, Aramayo made his stage debut at the Royal Court Theatre opposite Rosie Sheehy in the production Guess How Much I Love You?, a play that explores the emotional complexity of a couple facing unexpected ultrasound results. This marked a significant transition into theatre alongside his continuing film work.
Impact on the Bafta Landscape and Future Prospects
Robert Aramayo’s surprise victory in the Best Actor category over high-profile nominees like Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio highlights a shift in the awards landscape, emphasising fresh talent and compelling storytelling rooted in real-life experiences. His success shines a light on underrepresented narratives like those surrounding Tourette syndrome and demonstrates the Bafta Awards’ openness to rewarding diverse performances.
As Aramayo’s career gains momentum, his achievement at the Baftas positions him as a rising force in British acting, promising more impactful roles and continued recognition in years to come.
