The British Academy Film Awards 2026 delivered memorable highlights at London’s Royal Festival Hall, where Hollywood stars gathered for gold mask honors. One Battle After Another dominated with six awards, Jessie Buckley claimed Best Actress, and Robert Aramayo surprised with Best Actor for I Swear. Viral moments captivated audiences and sparked social media buzz.
Robert Aramayo’s Father Celebrates Best Actor Triumph
Audience gasps filled the hall as Robert Aramayo won Best Actor for his role in I Swear, the biopic about campaigner John Davidson’s life with Tourette’s syndrome. Aramayo’s father leaped from his seat, shouting and jumping in joy before embracing his son.
From the stage, Aramayo shared his disbelief: “I absolutely can’t believe this. I can’t believe I’m looking at people like you, never mind that I’m stood here.” He praised competitors and recalled Ethan Hawke’s Juilliard talk on acting longevity.
Paddington Bear’s Charming Award Presentation
Paddington Bear stole the spotlight, presenting the Children’s and Family Film award. The iconic character, in his blue duffle coat, tipped his red hat to stars like Emma Stone, Kate Hudson, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Timothée Chalamet.
Standing at a miniature podium, Paddington remarked: “You all look surprised to see me, I’m as surprised as you are.” He referenced his Peruvian aunt and adoptive Brown family. Fans hailed the “wholesome” cameo as peak British charm on social media.
Alan Cumming’s Cheeky British Snack Gag
Host Alan Cumming delighted with a segment handing out UK snacks to celebrities. Kylie Jenner received a giant Jammy Dodger biscuit, appearing puzzled by the jam-filled treat. Timothée Chalamet got Scampi Fries, Emma Stone Hula Hoops crisps—responding, “No but that sounds delightful.”
Leonardo DiCaprio took an Oaty Hobnob Flapjack, Stormzy his favorite Skips, and Rose Byrne with Bobby Cannavale got Twiglets. Cumming quipped about covering their snack needs.
Host Addresses Tourette’s Awareness
Alan Cumming thanked the audience for understanding involuntary tics from I Swear‘s John Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome—a condition affecting one in 100 children with uncontrollable noises and movements.
Cumming explained: “You may have heard some strong offensive language tonight… It’s a disability and the tics are involuntary. We apologise if it has caused offence.”
KPop Demon Hunters’ Electrifying Performance
Rei Ami, EJAE, and Audrey Nuna from Huntr/x performed their hit “Golden” from Netflix’s record-breaking KPop Demon Hunters, ineligible due to lacking a UK theatrical release and no Best Original Song category.
The trio, backed by dancers, delivered powerful vocals in their first non-US live show. Viewers raved: “Stage on fire,” calling it a “killer” set.
Alan Cumming’s Provocative Opening Monologue
Cumming kicked off with political nods, linking films like Marty Supreme, Hanet, and Zootropolis 2 to real-world events. He joked: “It’s almost as though there are events going on in the real world influencing filmmakers. Ring any bells for you Americans?”
He led a collective primal scream for catharsis.
Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams’ Red Carpet Romance
Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams made their red carpet debut, sharing a cheek kiss and loving gazes. Abrams shone in a backless black patterned dress. Mescal, nominated for Supporting Actor in Hamnet, drew fan excitement for the couple’s chemistry.
