London was buzzing on Sunday as A-listers and Hollywood heavyweights descended on the Royal Festival Hall for the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards.
The event, widely regarded as a bellwether ahead of next month’s Academy Awards, saw fans, photographers, and journalists flock to the Southbank to catch a glimpse of the stars in full glamour mode.
Leading the pack was One Battle After Another, dominating the nominations with 14 nods, followed closely by Sinners, Hamnet, and Marty Supreme.
Notably, Hamnet, directed by Chloe Zhao, broke the record for the most BAFTA nominations ever received by a female-directed film, garnering 11 nods.
Glamour on the Red Carpet
The red carpet was a whirlwind of fashion and celebrity.
Reality star Maura Higgins made a statement, while Sadie Sink stunned in a silk green gown that shimmered under the spotlights.
Chase Infiniti, star of One Battle After Another, arrived looking effortlessly glamorous, setting the tone for a night of cinematic celebration.
Hosts Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing from Made In Chelsea were among the early arrivals, guiding fans and photographers through the buzz of pre-show excitement.
The atmosphere was electric, a mix of anticipation, glamour, and Hollywood-style drama that the BAFTAs are known for.
Behind the Scenes with Edith Bowman
BBC Radio personality Edith Bowman, a longtime BAFTA attendee, offered insights into the evening’s chaos and charm.
Having interviewed the likes of Olivia Colman, Martin Scorsese, and Russell Crowe over the years, Bowman shared some amusing and touching moments from past ceremonies.
She recalled nearly being drenched on the red carpet while nine months pregnant during a 2013 encounter with Hugh Jackman, and a tearful reunion with Olivia Colman after her Best Actress win for The Favourite in 2018.
This year, Bowman is partnering with Samsung, the awards’ first technology partner, giving fans an inside look at the ceremonies, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories.
Top Nominations and Expected Highlights
All eyes are on Timothée Chalamet and Jessie Buckley, nominated for Best Actor and Best Actress respectively for Marty Supreme and Hamnet.
Leonardo DiCaprio hopes to claim his second BAFTA for One Battle After Another, already heavily decorated across international awards.
While the night is about recognising cinematic brilliance, the BAFTAs have a history of memorable drama—from awkward speeches and passionate on-stage kisses to fashion missteps and even rare physical confrontations.
Fans attending and following online can expect a mix of elegance, excitement, and unexpected moments.
Live Performances and Special Tributes
A standout moment of the night will be Jessie Ware, performing a tribute during the In Memoriam segment, honouring those who have contributed to the film industry and passed away in the past year.
This emotionally charged performance is one of the highlights that remind audiences of the heart behind the glamour.
What’s Next
The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards set the stage for next month’s Academy Awards, giving insight into frontrunners and potential winners.
Fans will be watching closely to see if One Battle After Another maintains its momentum or if Hamnet’s record-breaking nominations translate into major wins.
Meanwhile, fashion critics and social media are already dissecting red-carpet outfits and best-dressed contenders.
Summary
BAFTA 2026 took over London’s Royal Festival Hall, with Hollywood stars and British talent gathering to celebrate the year’s best films.
One Battle After Another led nominations with 14, while Chloe Zhao’s Hamnet made history as the most nominated female-directed film.
Timothée Chalamet, Jessie Buckley, and Leonardo DiCaprio are among the top contenders, with Jessie Ware performing a poignant In Memoriam tribute.
Red carpet hosts Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing welcomed A-listers, and Edith Bowman shared behind-the-scenes insights from her decades of BAFTA experience.
The night combined glamour, drama, and cinematic celebration, setting the tone for the upcoming Oscars.
