Archie Madekwe and Robert Aramayo Nominated for EE Bafta Rising Star 2026

The nominees for the 2026 EE Bafta Rising Star Award have been officially announced, highlighting a diverse group of emerging talent in the film industry. The announcement took place during a press conference on October 19, 2023, at the prestigious Savoy Hotel in London. Leading the nominees are actors Archie Madekwe, Robert Aramayo, Chase Infiniti, Miles Caton, and Posy Sterling, each recognized for their outstanding performances in recent films.

The event was hosted by Mia McKenna-Bruce, the winner of the 2024 EE Rising Star Award, alongside film critic and radio presenter Ali Plumb. They engaged the audience with insights into the nominees’ work and the significance of the award in recognizing up-and-coming talent in the film industry.

The nominees were selected by a panel of industry jurors, which included notable actors such as Joe Alwyn, Sheila Atim, and Benedict Wong, as well as seasoned experts from various sectors of the film industry. This year’s nominations reflect a range of genres and styles, showcasing the versatility and potential of the selected actors.

Posy Sterling, who received acclaim for her role in the British drama film Lollipop, shared her excitement about the nomination. While climbing a mountain with friends, she received a call from her agent informing her of the nomination. Sterling recalled the moment, saying, “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?’”

The EE Bafta Rising Star Award is unique in that it is the only award at the Baftas voted for by the public, providing fans an opportunity to support their favorite emerging talents. Previous winners have included some of today’s most recognized names in film, making this nomination a significant milestone in the careers of those selected.

As the ceremony approaches, excitement builds not only for the nominees but also for fans and supporters eager to see who will take home the coveted award. The 2026 EE Bafta Rising Star Award ceremony will take place on February 19, 2026, during the annual Bafta Film Awards. This prestigious event continues to shine a light on the future of cinema, paving the way for the next generation of stars.