Robert Aramayo delivered one of the most emotional moments at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards when he paid tribute to Ethan Hawke during his Best Actor acceptance speech on Sunday 22 February.
The 33-year-old English actor stunned audiences by winning the coveted award for his performance in I sweara biopic about campaigner John Davidson’s life with severe Tourette syndrome.
Beating heavyweights including Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, Jesse Plemons and Timothée Chalamet, Aramayo was visibly overwhelmed when he took the stage.
Robert said, “I absolutely can’t believe this. I can’t believe I’m looking at people like you [Leonardo] Never mind that I’m standing here.”
“I honestly can’t believe I’ve won this award. I really can’t. Everyone in this category blows me away,” he added.
In his speech, Aramayo recalled a formative moment at Juilliard, when Before sunrise star visited his class.
He remembered Hawke talking about longevity in acting, protecting one’s craft and avoiding self-destructive habits.
“It had a big impact on everyone in that room,” The Lord of the Rings the alum said, turning to Hawke in the crowd.
The camera caught Hawke fighting back tears, burying his face in his hand before offering a warm smile and nod of encouragement.
Aramayo’s father jumped for joy in the audience as his son also won the Rising Star Award voted for by the public.
The Game of Thrones actor, dedicated his victories to his family and I swear team, Davidson calls “the most amazing person I’ve ever met.”
