Jessie Buckley on the BAFTAs, Chanel & Motherhood’s Realities

Jessie Buckley is navigating awards season with a refreshingly candid approach, balancing the glamour of red carpets with the very real demands of motherhood and, yes, the practicalities of Spanx. As she prepares for the February 22nd, 2026 BAFTAs, where her performance in Hamnet has earned her a nomination, Buckley is offering a glimpse behind the curtain of Hollywood’s high-profile events – and a surprisingly relatable perspective.

The Irish actress, currently riding a wave of critical acclaim, admits to a pre-ceremony ritual that’s both pragmatic and charming. “Good idea about the snacks,” she told Vogue, acknowledging the need for sustenance amidst the whirlwind of events. But her true awards season essential, she revealed, isn’t a protein bar, but shapewear. “Spanx!” she declared, with a touch of humor, before acknowledging the inevitable discomfort that comes with extended wear. The challenges extend beyond wardrobe, however, encompassing the realities of balancing a demanding career with the needs of her young daughter. She spoke openly about the difficulties of breastfeeding while maintaining a rigorous schedule and the urgent need for bathroom breaks.

Despite these challenges, Buckley emphasizes the joy she finds in the experience. “The highs have made it all worth it,” she said, acknowledging that the “pinch-me moments” – the opportunities to connect with her idols – outweigh the less glamorous aspects. She specifically cited the “bloody lovely” Paul Thomas Anderson, the “mischievous and buzzing” Teyana Taylor, and the supportive presence of Kate Winslet, whom she described as “the rock.” Her connection with her Hamnet co-stars, Paul Mescal and Emily Watson, is particularly strong, with Buckley praising Watson as “the greatest woman I get to call a friend.”

Buckley’s BAFTA look, a striking blue velvet Chanel gown, is more than just a fashion statement. It’s a deliberate nod to the cinematic world of David Lynch, specifically his 1986 film Blue Velvet. Working with stylist Danielle Goldberg, Buckley sought a look that felt both classic and uniquely her own. “It’s a nod to his wild and wonderful worlds, but also something classic and unique and cool. I’m excited,” she explained. The gown is complemented by Chanel High Jewelry, including diamond earrings and a multi-stone ring.

The choice of Chanel is significant, marking a new chapter in Buckley’s relationship with the fashion house, welcomed by creative director Matthieu Blazy. Buckley expressed her admiration for Blazy’s ability to blend the brand’s heritage with a contemporary sensibility, calling him a “singular, vibrant artist.” This collaboration has culminated in Buckley becoming a brand ambassador, a recognition she described as “pretty much the best gong going in the fashion space.”

Hamnet, Chloé Zhao’s adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, has garnered 11 BAFTA nominations, and Buckley’s portrayal of Agnes Hathaway, William Shakespeare’s wife, has been widely praised. Buckley spoke about her approach to the role, emphasizing her desire to portray a deeply human character grappling with loss and finding strength in vulnerability. She described the experience of filming the film’s finale, where Agnes witnesses the premiere of Hamlet, as a moment of profound emotional connection. “I had no idea where I was going to go. And being lost was part of it,” she said. “I remember thinking, ‘Actually, maybe it’s deeply human to be lost.’”

Beyond the awards and the accolades, Buckley’s perspective offers a refreshing dose of realism. She acknowledges the support system that makes it all possible – her “giggle-prone glam squad” and, crucially, the opportunity for “the best snuggles” with her daughter. She even offers a practical tip for navigating awards season: “Honestly don’t underestimate the toilet for a proper chin wag and some light relief,” she quipped. “It’s a good place to get real with your girls and have a moment to take it all in.”

As Buckley prepares for the BAFTAs, and the remainder of the 2026 awards season, she embodies a new kind of Hollywood star – one who is both fiercely talented and refreshingly grounded. Her parents, according to HELLO! Magazine, are immensely proud of her achievements, recognizing her as a “high achiever.” Buckley’s success isn’t just about winning awards; it’s about embracing the complexities of life, both on and off screen, and sharing that authenticity with the world.

Buckley’s journey, as highlighted in recent interviews, also reveals a deep connection between her work and her experience of motherhood. A recent report in SheKnows explored how her role in Hamnet resonated with her own feelings about becoming a mother, and how she “deeply wanted” to experience motherhood herself. This personal connection adds another layer of depth to her performance and underscores her commitment to portraying the full spectrum of human emotion.