From Paddington’s surprise cameo to Jessie Buckley’s emotional win, here’s what went down at the recent BAFTAs onstage and on the red carpet

London had fashion week on one side of the Thames and the BAFTAs on the other, and for one night, film and fashion shared the spotlight. The 79th British Academy Film Awards at the Royal Festival Hall delivered big wins, awkward moments, and major red carpet moments (I mean, Paul Mescal and Gracie Abram’s are official!)

Here are the highlights that shaped the ceremony, followed by the looks we loved most:

The big and even bigger reactions

The night ultimately belonged to One Battle After Another, which took home Best Film and continued its awards season momentum. But the most talked-about win came in the Best Actor category, where Robert Aramayo pulled off a genuine surprise victory for I Swear, beating heavyweights including Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. His reaction said it all, calling the moment “absolute madness” as his parents cheered from the audience.

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Jessie Buckley won Best Actress for Hamnet and delivered the most emotional speech of the evening. Without notes, she laughed, teared up, and dedicated her award to the women who shaped her.

*Jessie Buckley won Best Actress for Hamnet | Photos from Getty Images*

Paddington, British snacks, and one controversy

Yes, Paddington Bear presented an award. The beloved character, fresh from the West End stage, joked about getting marmalade on the BAFTA trophy and struggling to open the envelope “with paws.”

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Host Alan Cumming leaned into that Britishness by handing out pub snacks to Hollywood stars. Scampi fries for Timothée Chalamet, Twiglets for Rose Byrne, and a Jammy Dodger moment that left Kylie Jenner visibly confused. It was slightly absurd but also surprisingly charming.

But not all moments were best. During the ceremony, John Davidson, involuntarily shouted curse words and a racist slur due to Tourette’s syndrome. Cumming later addressed it, reminding viewers that Tourette’s is a disability and the outbursts were not intentional. The moment sparked debate online, especially after actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were onstage when the slur was shouted. It underscored the film’s message about empathy, but also left the room tense.

Prince William, attending as BAFTA president, also drew attention given recent headlines involving his uncle. The ceremony avoided direct references, though Cumming did acknowledge the royal presence with a quick joke about a costume change.

Wimbledon is serving looks—even from the sidelines

See the full list of winners here.

Our favorite red carpet looks at the BAFTAs 2026

While the awards made headlines, the red carpet delivered its own moment too. With London Fashion Week happening simultaneously, the BAFTAs also became a second runway.

Here are the looks that stood out for us: