Archie Madekwe and Robert Aramayo Nominated for 2026 Bafta Rising Star

The nominees for the 2026 EE Bafta Rising Star Award have been officially announced, featuring a talented lineup of emerging actors. Among the nominees are Archie Madekwe for his role in Lurker, Robert Aramayo for I Swear, Chase Infiniti for One Battle After Another, Miles Caton for Sinners, and Posy Sterling for Lollipop. The announcement took place during a press conference at London’s Savoy Hotel on Thursday.

The event featured hosts Mia McKenna-Bruce, the winner of the 2024 EE Rising Star Award, and film critic Ali Plumb. The nominees were selected by a diverse panel of jurors, including well-known actors Joe Alwyn, Sheila Atim, and Benedict Wong, alongside a group of distinguished industry experts.

Nominee Reflections and Celebrations

In a heartfelt moment, Posy Sterling shared her reaction upon learning of her nomination. While climbing a mountain with friends, she received a call from her agent asking about her whereabouts. Sterling recalled the conversation: “My agent called me and she said, ‘Where are you? What are you doing?’ and I said, ‘I’m on top of a mountain, what about you?’” This spontaneous moment highlights the joy and surprise often associated with such recognition in the competitive film industry.

The EE Bafta Rising Star Award is notable for honoring actors who have demonstrated exceptional talent and potential in their careers. Previous winners have included a range of actors who have gone on to achieve international acclaim, making this award a significant milestone for aspiring performers.

As the film industry continues to evolve, awards like the Bafta Rising Star serve to spotlight new talent and encourage diversity within the field. The nominations for 2026 reflect a rich tapestry of artistic expression, showcasing stories that resonate with a wide audience.

The ceremony for the Bafta Awards will take place on February 19, 2026, and as always, the Rising Star Award will be voted for by the public. This allows fans to engage directly with the nominees and celebrate their favorite emerging talent in film.