The 2026 British Academy Film Awards brought Hollywood stars to London for the prestigious gold masks. One Battle After Another dominated with six awards, Jessie Buckley claimed Best Actress, and Robert Aramayo secured a shocking Best Actor win for I Swear. Host Alan Cumming delivered memorable hosting, sparking social media buzz with several standout moments.
Robert Aramayo’s Father Celebrates Best Actor Triumph
Audience members gasped as Robert Aramayo won Best Actor for his role in I Swear, the biopic about campaigner John Davidson’s life with Tourette’s syndrome. Diagnosed young in Galashiels when the condition was poorly understood, Davidson’s story resonated deeply.
Aramayo’s father leaped from his seat, shouting and jumping in excitement as the pair embraced. 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 continued, “I honestly cannot believe that I have won this award. Everyone in this category blows me away.” Aramayo also recalled Ethan Hawke’s inspiring talk at Juilliard on acting longevity.
Paddington Bear Steals the Spotlight
Paddington Bear made an enchanting cameo, presenting the Children’s and Family Film award. Stepping away from his stage show, the 4-foot-tall bear in his blue duffle coat and red hat greeted A-listers like Emma Stone, Kate Hudson, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Timothée Chalamet.
Ditching his suitcase and marmalade sandwich, Paddington stood at a miniature podium and quipped, “You all look surprised to see me, I’m as surprised as you are.” He referenced his Peruvian aunt and adoptive Brown family. Fans on X hailed the “wholesome” moment, calling it “peak British charm” and insisting Paddington “stole the spotlight.”
Alan Cumming’s Hilarious British Snack Segment
Host Alan Cumming amused the crowd with very British snacks handed to celebrities. Kylie Jenner received a giant Jammy Dodger biscuit, appearing puzzled by the jam-filled shortcake with its heart-shaped hole. Timothée Chalamet got Scampi Fries, while Emma Stone took Hula Hoops crisps. Cumming asked her, “Do you know what a Hula Hoop is?” She replied, “No, but that sounds delightful.”
Leonardo DiCaprio was offered an Oaty Hobnob Flapjack, Stormzy his favorite Skips, and Rose Byrne with Bobby Cannavale got Twiglets. Cumming joked, “I think you guys are Twiglets kind of people.”
Host Thanks Crowd for Tourette’s Awareness
During the event at Royal Festival Hall, Alan Cumming addressed involuntary shouts from I Swear subject John Davidson, now 54. The neurological condition causes tics affecting about one in 100 children. Cumming explained, “You may have heard some strong offensive language tonight, but if you’ve seen the film I Swear, it’s about the experience of a person with Tourette’s syndrome. It is a disability, and the tics you have heard tonight are involuntary.”
Huntr/x Delivers Electrifying Performance
Stars from Netflix’s record-breaking KPop Demon Hunters—Rei Ami, EJAE, and Audrey Nuna of Huntr/x—performed their hit “Golden.” Ineligible due to lacking a UK theatrical release and no Best Original Song category, the trio still thrilled with powerful vocals and dancers. Fans raved on social media: “Stage on fire,” “killer energy,” and “they ate that BAFTA stage up.” This marked their first live show outside the US.
Alan Cumming’s Bold Opening Monologue
Cumming kicked off with political nods, linking films to real-world events like US unrest. He joked about Marty Supreme feeling like a “core workout,” Hanet‘s tragedy, and Zootropolis 2: “Lies, corrupt leaders, poisoning, and persecution of a race. Too soon, Disney.” He quipped, “It’s almost as though there are events going on in the real world influencing filmmakers. Ring any bells for you Americans?” Cumming led a collective “primal scream,” adding, “That felt better, didn’t it?”
Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams’ Red Carpet Romance
Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams made their red carpet debut, sharing affectionate moments. Abrams stunned in a backless black patterned dress, kissing Mescal on the cheek as they gazed into each other’s eyes. Nominated for Supporting Actor in Hamnet, Mescal and Abrams, dating since 2024, drew fan excitement on X for their “power couple vibes” and “red carpet goals.”
