Robert Aramayo’s Best Actor win was a major upset
Robert Aramayo’s unexpected victory as Best Actor at the BAFTA Film Awards marked a significant moment for British cinema, particularly as he triumphed over established stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Ethan Hawke, reports BritPanorama.
After a smooth ceremony hosted by Alan Cumming, the evening took a dramatic turn when Aramayo’s name was announced, leaving spectators in disbelief. Just prior, Jessie Buckley and Timothée Chalamet were anticipated to secure awards for their performances in Hamnet and Marty Supreme, respectively.
Aramayo, hailing from Hull, had just concluded a successful run at London’s Royal Court Theatre and was celebrated for his role in I Swear, a poignant film about John Anderson, a Scottish advocate for awareness of Tourette’s syndrome. His performance has been lauded as both heartwarming and impactful, affirming his place among rising stars in British film.
The BAFTAs have recently faced criticism for shifting focus away from homegrown talent, with a tendency to favour American productions. This year’s ceremony comes ahead of the Oscars, scheduled for March 15, framing it as a crucial predictor for Hollywood’s final awards season.
During the event, Chalamet was a focal point as cameras tracked him and his girlfriend Kylie Jenner amid ongoing speculation regarding his aspirations for an Oscar. His reaction to Aramayo winning over him was notably composed but hinted at disappointment, underlining the competitive atmosphere of the evening.
Despite his setback, Chalamet remains a strong contender for the Academy Awards, while Aramayo’s omission from Oscar nominations may be attributed to his distinct Scottish accent, which sceptics fear could present challenges for American audiences.
Buckley’s victory further solidified her standing within the industry, as her acceptance speech resonated with attendees and viewers alike. Nonetheless, Aramayo’s surprise win was the standout moment of the night, highlighting the unpredictable nature of awards season.
