BAFTA Awards 2026: Winners, Red Carpet & Highlights

London played host to the 2026 British Academy Film Awards on February 22nd, a night marked by both expected triumphs and a few notable surprises. The ceremony, hosted by Alan Cumming, saw One Battle After Another emerge as the big winner, taking home six awards including Best Film. But beyond the golden masks handed out, the event offered a glimpse into the current state of British and international cinema, and a few memorable moments both on and off the red carpet.

Aramayo’s Upset and Chalamet’s Snub

Perhaps the biggest shock of the evening came in the Best Actor category, where Robert Aramayo, recognized for his performance in I Swear, defeated the heavily favored Timothée Chalamet. Chalamet, whose film Marty Supreme entered the night with a leading 11 nominations, ultimately left empty-handed. The loss was described as “hugely dramatic” by one journalist present, with some suggesting a parallel between the film’s narrative – a character constantly striving for success but falling short – and its own awards fate.

Royal Presence and a Return to the Red Carpet

The awards weren’t solely focused on Hollywood stars. Prince William and Princess Kate made a public appearance, their first since the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Prince William, as president of BAFTA, also delivered a speech during the ceremony. Kate Middleton’s return to the BAFTAs after a three-year absence also drew attention, alongside appearances from Teyana Taylor, Paul Mescal, and Michael B. Jordan.

Paddington Bear Steals the Show (and a Lift)

Adding a touch of whimsy to the proceedings, Paddington Bear was a popular figure on the red carpet, drawing adoration from journalists and attendees alike. A photograph captured the beloved bear taking a ride in a lift, a lighthearted moment that underscored the event’s celebratory atmosphere.

Fashion Moments and Musical Performances

The red carpet was, as always, a showcase for high fashion. Emma Stone turned heads in a bold halter dress featuring a keyhole cutout. The evening also included musical performances by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami – the voices behind the fictional KPop group HUNTR/X from KPop Demon Hunters – as well as a performance by Jessie Ware during the In Memoriam tribute.

Winners Circle: A Look at the Full List

Beyond One Battle After Another’s success, other notable winners included Sean Penn, Wunmi Mosaku, and Jessie Buckley, who won for her leading role in Hamnet. Buckley, in her acceptance speech, expressed admiration for Judi Dench, stating, “I dreamed a little bit to be a little bit like Judi Dench. This really does belong to the women past, present and future that have taught me and continue to teach me how to do it differently.”

Backstage Buzz: Mescal and Abrams Go Official

The evening wasn’t without its off-screen developments. Reports indicate that Paul Mescal and his partner, director Charlotte Abrams, made their red carpet debut as a couple. The event also included a moment of levity when an apology was issued for “strong language” used during the ceremony, adding a touch of unexpected humor to the proceedings.

Industry Reflections and Future Outlook

The 2026 BAFTAs served as a reminder of the vibrancy of the film industry, showcasing both established stars and emerging talent. One Battle After Another’s dominance signals a potential shift in critical favor, while Aramayo’s win demonstrates a willingness to recognize performances beyond established Hollywood names. The event also highlighted the continued importance of British cinema on the global stage, and the enduring appeal of a night celebrating the art of filmmaking.

The awards season continues, with the industry now turning its attention to upcoming ceremonies and the ongoing box office performance of nominated films. The BAFTAs, however, provided a compelling snapshot of the current landscape, and a glimpse into the future of British and international cinema.