Ellie Goulding, Tess Daly, and Joanne Froggatt Dazzle Fans at the Star-Studded BAFTA Invest in Talent Gala in London

If there was one place to be in London on Thursday night, it was the ballroom at The Chancery Rosewood.

The BAFTA Invest in Talent Gala 2026 brought together film royalty, music icons and industry heavyweights — and the red carpet did not disappoint.

Leading the charge were singer Ellie Goulding, TV favourite Tess Daly, and actress Joanne Froggatt, each making sure cameras flashed from every angle.

This biennial fundraiser isn’t just about glamour.

It exists to bankroll the next wave of creative talent across film, television and gaming — a reminder that behind the sparkle lies serious industry muscle.

Ellie Goulding Glows as She Shows Off Her Baby Bump

All eyes naturally turned to Ellie Goulding, who is heavily pregnant with her second child.

The 39-year-old looked radiant in a pale pink satin and lace gown that hugged her growing bump, layered with delicate sheer tulle.

The plunging neckline and diamond jewellery added just the right amount of drama.

Ellie, who shares four-year-old son Arthur with her former husband Caspar Jopling, is now expecting her first baby with boyfriend Beau Minniear.

Motherhood clearly suits her — she looked relaxed, glowing and very much at ease as she greeted fellow guests.

Tess Daly Brings a Touch of Glitterball Energy

Tess Daly, 56, proved that stepping down from hosting Strictly Come Dancing hasn’t dimmed her shine.

She arrived in a strapless black dress with a thigh-high slit that showcased her famously toned legs.

The gown, encrusted with gemstones, appeared to nod playfully to the show’s iconic Glitterball Trophy.

Paired with crisp white heels, Tess looked every inch the seasoned red carpet pro.

Joanne Froggatt Delivers Timeless Elegance

Meanwhile, Joanne Froggatt opted for understated sophistication.

The Downton Abbey star stunned in a halterneck black gown with a structured bodice and semi-sheer skirt that flowed into a subtle train.

It was classic, polished and effortlessly chic — a reminder of why she remains one of Britain’s most respected acting talents.

Hollywood Royalty Turn Up the Romance

Adding international star power to the evening were Alicia Vikander and Michael Fassbender, who posed arm-in-arm and looked as smitten as ever.

Alicia stunned in an off-the-shoulder grey gown with soft ruffles, while Michael kept it sharp in a classic black tuxedo.

Elsewhere on the carpet, Jason Isaacs cut a suave figure in a dark tailored suit, while Monica Lewinsky embraced full old Hollywood glamour in a sparkling red sequinned gown.

Acting legend Celia Imrie brought personality with a tuxedo and statement accessories, while Gwendoline Christie once again rewrote the fashion rulebook in satin trousers, a silk tie and a dramatic trench coat that amplified her statuesque height.

The Bigger Picture Behind the Glamour

The gala serves as a fundraising engine for BAFTA’s year-round work supporting emerging creatives.

Hundreds of films are submitted annually for consideration, but initiatives like this ensure that fresh voices and underrepresented talent can access mentoring, scholarships and industry connections.

This year’s awards season buzz has already been electric.

One Battle After Another leads the BAFTA nominations with 14 nods, including recognition for Leonardo DiCaprio.

Close behind is Sinners, which has been dominating headlines after breaking Oscar nomination records.

Meanwhile, Hamnet, directed by Chloé Zhao, has made history as the most nominated female-directed film in BAFTA history.

Irish actress Jessie Buckley continues her unstoppable awards run thanks to her leading role.

The ceremony itself, set for February 22, will be hosted by Alan Cumming, promising a night packed with both prestige and personality.

A Season of Surprises and Snubs

Awards season wouldn’t be complete without a few twists.

While some films mirrored their Oscar success, others diverged sharply.

Notably, Netflix’s release strategy left K-Pop Demon Hunters out of contention due to BAFTA’s cinema-first rules — a reminder of how distribution decisions can shape awards fate.

The EE Rising Star Award, the only BAFTA voted on by the public, once again highlights emerging performers poised for major careers — past winners include some of today’s biggest global names.

What’s Next?

With the BAFTA Film Awards just days away, the Invest in Talent Gala has set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive ceremony.

All eyes are now on February 22, when winners will be crowned and momentum will either build — or stall — ahead of the Oscars.

Beyond the trophies, BAFTA’s continued investment in grassroots talent could shape the next decade of British and global storytelling.

For many in the room on Thursday night, the real prize isn’t just a mask-shaped statuette — it’s long-term creative opportunity.

Summary

The BAFTA Invest in Talent Gala 2026 brought glamour and star power to The Chancery Rosewood in London, with Ellie Goulding, Tess Daly and Joanne Froggatt leading arrivals.

Hollywood names including Alicia Vikander and Michael Fassbender added international flair.

Beyond the fashion, the biennial fundraiser supports emerging creative talent across film, television and games.

With major contenders like One Battle After Another, Sinners and Hamnet dominating nominations, anticipation is now building for the BAFTA Film Awards on February 22, hosted by Alan Cumming.