Jessie Buckley recounted a ‘really special’ moment at the BAFTA ceremony where Cillian Murphy presented her with her award, admitting she ‘had a few margaritas’ as she savored the experience. The Irish actress, 36, received the BAFTA for Lead Actress for her performance in Chloe Zhao’s film Hamnet over the weekend.
Discussing the event on BBC One’s The One Show, Jessie described walking up to Murphy as unforgettable, particularly because she deeply respects and admires him, making the moment even more meaningful. Her candid admission about enjoying a few margaritas added a lighthearted touch to the emotional occasion.
From Aspiring Actress to Award-Winning Star: Buckley’s Emotional Journey
In her acceptance speech, Buckley shared heartfelt reflections about her career path, recalling her early ambitions and the encouragement she received along the way. She described herself as once being a ‘Judi Dench wannabe’ with a ‘nuclear bad fake tan’ and a unique fashion sense, illustrating how far she has come since her early days in London.
She credited her agent, Lindy King, for always motivating her to be “disobedient and curious and human,” which helped shape her approach to acting. Buckley expressed deep gratitude to the women who taught her to embrace a distinctive path in her craft, highlighting their influence on her achievements.
Expressing Gratitude to Fellow Nominees and Supporters
Buckley took a moment during her speech to thank her fellow nominees, though she momentarily forgot to mention one, asking the audience, ‘Who have I left out?’ She later included Kate Hudson in her acknowledgments, praising the incredible performances of all her peers. Her appreciation extended to Maggie O’Farrell, whose novel provided the source material for Hamnet, allowing Buckley to portray Agnes, Shakespeare’s wife.
She noted, ‘Maggie O’Farrell thank you for this role. You brought the mother out of the shadows and stood her next to that absolute giant that is Shakespeare.’
Personal Dedication to Her Daughter
Concluding her speech with emotion, Jessie dedicated her award to her daughter, describing motherhood as the most important role in her life. She said, ‘I’d like to share this with my daughter, it’s the best role of my life being your mum,’ highlighting the profound significance of balancing personal and professional life.
Significance of the BAFTA Win and Future Prospects
Buckley’s BAFTA victory marks a major milestone in her career, positioning her as a strong contender for the upcoming Oscars, where she is frequently cited as a favorite for Best Actress. The recognition for her role in Hamnet not only celebrates her talent but also underscores the cultural impact of bringing historical and literary figures to life on screen.
Her interaction with Cillian Murphy, another prominent Irish actor, adds a meaningful layer to the achievement, symbolizing a shared respect within their artistic community. As Buckley continues to rise in acclaim, audiences and industry observers alike eagerly anticipate her next projects and performances.
