With award season officially underway, the 2026 nominees for the EE BAFTA Rising Star Award have now been revealed. HELLO! was on hand at the announcement on Wednesday morning, which was hosted by film critic Ali Plumb at London's The Savoy Hotel.
Launched in 2006, the Rising Star Award is uniquely voted for by the public and shines a spotlight on the industry's most exciting emerging talent. Over the years, it has helped propel the careers of stars including Tom Hardy, James McAvoy, Tom Holland, Mia McKenna-Bruce and Emma Mackey.
This year's nominees were selected by a panel of industry jurors, including actors Joe Alwyn (The Brutalist, Kinds of Kindness), Sheila Atim (Blade Runner 2099, Dust Bunny) and Benedict Wong (Weapons, 3Body Problem).
Last year, David Jonsson took home the coveted gong for his work on projects like Alien: Romulus, Industry and Rye Lane. He went up against Nabhaan Rizwan, Marisa Abela, Mikey Madison and Jharrel Jerome.
This year's line-up includes Robert Aramayo (I Swear), Miles Caton (Sinners), Chase Infiniti (One Battle After Another), Archie Madekwe (Saltburn) and Posy Sterling (Lollipop).
The nominees were announced by Mia McKenna-Bruce, who won the award in 2024 and who has since gone on to star in Agatha Christie's Seven Dials, Sister Wives and The Fence.
Reflecting on the impact the award has made on her own career, Mia said: "Winning the EE Rising Star Award was a very exciting and surreal moment for me. I wish all the incredibly talented 2026 nominees the best of luck on their Rising Star journey and as they continue in their success as beautifully talented artists."
Speaking of his nomination, Robert Aramayo said: "Today is a day I will never forget. The artists nominated alongside me this year and those who've been recognised by the EE Rising Star Award before set a standard that continues to inspire me. If young Robert only knew he’d be standing here as an EE Rising Star nominee today, he’d be very proud."
Meanwhile, Archie Madekwe commented: "It's an incredible honour. I think as a Brit, the EE Rising Star Award has particular significance. So many of my favourite actors have been nominated for this award, so it's completely surreal to be included this year – and alongside such an incredible group. I feel very lucky."
Posy Sterling added: "I'm genuinely overwhelmed by this recognition, and I want to thank BAFTA, EE and all the jurors who helped make this longtime dream a reality. To be recognised here in the UK, where I first began acting and was inspired to dream big, makes this moment all the more special."
One Battle After Another star Chase Infiniti said: "This nomination means the world to me. It's been such a transformative year in my career, and I feel honoured and grateful to be considered for this award. Thank you to BAFTA, EE and all the jurors for including me alongside this tremendous group of actors."
Meanwhile, Sinners star Miles Caton added: "Thank you to BAFTA, EE, and the jury for this nomination – it's truly surreal. I'm honoured to be recognised alongside such talented artists, and I’m grateful to everyone who supports and champions new voices in film."
The 2026 BAFTA Rising Star winner will be awarded at the BAFTA Film Awards ceremony on 22 February at the Royal Festival Hall.
Alan Cumming is set to host, with nominations set to be announced on 27 January.
The longlist has already been revealed by BAFTA, which sees One Battle After Another leading the pack with 16 mentions, followed closely by Hamnet and Sinners with 14 mentions each.
If you'd like to cast your vote, click here to pick your winner – voting closes on Friday 20 February.
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