Performances That Deserve a BAFTA in 2026

Michael B. Jordan's portrayal of the Moore twins in "Sinners" was praised by Rolling Stone as an exercise in absolute precision, highlighting the complexity and distinctness of each character. His performance has had a strong run in awards season.

Leonardo DiCaprio is a strong contender in the Best Actor category, especially if the film "One Battle After Another" achieves widespread success in several categories. His presence among the nominees is indicative of the quality of his work.

Sean Penn won the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "One Battle After Another." Rolling Stone highlighted his pairing with Teyana Taylor for building an emotional confrontation that defines the film's first act, confirming the quality of his performance.

Teyana Taylor was the favorite to win the BAFTA and had already won a Golden Globe for her role in "One Battle After Another." Her performance alongside Sean Penn was praised for building constant moral tension, making it a well-deserved performance.

Jacob Elordi's performance as the Monster in "Frankenstein" was praised by Rolling Stone for its intensity and emotional complexity, demonstrating his ability to handle mature roles. He was nominated for a Golden Globe and a BAFTA, underscoring his evolution as an actor.

Despite not winning the BAFTA, Timothée Chalamet was the clear favorite before the ceremony and garnered awards such as the Golden Globe and Critics' Choice, underscoring the quality and impact of his performance. His portrayal was considered a significant evolution in his career.

Stellan Skarsgård was the clear favorite and winner of the Golden Globe for his role in "Sentimental Value." His performance is considered so strong that it could secure his Oscar win if he also wins the BAFTA, making it a very well-deserved performance.

Robert Aramayo not only won the BAFTA for Best Leading Actor, but he was also honored with the EE Rising Star Award, cementing his impact during awards season. His performance was widely praised by critics and audiences alike.

Renate Reinsve's BAFTA nomination for Best Actress for her role in "Sentimental Value" is a clear indication of the quality of her performance. The film itself received several nominations, further highlighting the significance of her work.

Archie Madekwe was nominated for a BAFTA Rising Star Award and also distinguished himself as the star and producer of an acclaimed independent film, positioning him as a rising star with a significant impact both in front of and behind the camera.

Jessie Buckley won the BAFTA for Best Actress for her role as Agnes in "Hamnet," in addition to receiving the Critics' Choice Award and the Golden Globe. Her performance was widely praised as "moving and devastating," making it the most outstanding female performance of the year.

Emma Stone was nominated for Best Actress at the BAFTAs for her role in Yorgos Lanthimos' film "Bugonia." Her collaboration with the acclaimed director and the nomination confirm the significance of her performance.

Chase Infiniti was not only nominated for Best Actress at the BAFTAs, but was also considered for the Rising Star Award, highlighting her double recognition and the significant impact of her performance during awards season.

Wunmi Mosaku won the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Sinners." Although her victory was a surprise to some, beating favorite Teyana Taylor, her recognition by the British Academy confirms the quality of her performance.

Miles Caton won the Critics' Choice Award for Best Young Actor and was nominated for the BAFTA Rising Star Award for his role in "Sinners." His early recognition during awards season highlights him as an emerging talent with great potential.