At tonight’s BAFTA ceremony, Robert Aramayo accepted the Leading Actor award for his role in the Scottish film I Swear. This follows his Rising Star win earlier in the night. The Juilliard-trained actor beat the acclaimed Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet, among others, to the award.
I Swear chronicles the life of Tourette’s activist John Davidson, who hails from Galashiels. The emotional biopic brings to light the trials and tribulations John faced following his diagnosis, and raises awareness surrounding Tourettes Syndrome.
Aramayo is visibly shocked after the announcement of his win, turning to hug his father and shedding a tear during his acceptance speech. During the speech, he thanks the filmmakers, those the film is based on, as well as the people of Galashiels whom he met while researching for the film.
Alongside them, he thanked Ethan Hawke, nominated alongside him in the leading actor category for his role in Blue Moon. Aramayo recalls Hawke visiting his class at Juilliard, and the lasting effect his words have had on him, saying they, “had a great impact on everyone in that room, so to be in this category tonight with you tonight is incredible. Thank you, Ethan”.
In my opinion, Aramayo’s performance was deeply compelling and fully deserving of this recognition at the ceremony.
Featured Image Credit: Sony Pictures
