Key Facts
- ✓ The Bafta Rising Star Award is the only Bafta accolade decided by a public vote.
- ✓ The award was established in 2006 in memory of casting director Mary Selway.
- ✓ Previous winners include James McAvoy, Eva Green, and John Boyega.
- ✓ The winner will be announced at the Bafta Film Awards ceremony in February 2026.
Spotlight on New Talent
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts has officially unveiled its shortlist for the highly anticipated Rising Star Award. This unique prize is one of the most coveted honors for emerging actors, as it recognizes talent on the cusp of global stardom.
Among the nominees announced this week are Chase Infiniti, Miles Caton, and Robert Aramayo. These performers have been selected for their compelling screen presence and breakout roles over the past year.
The award celebrates performers who have demonstrated exceptional promise in their early careers. Unlike other categories, this prize is decided by a public vote, giving audiences a direct voice in recognizing the future stars of the silver screen.
The Contenders
The 2026 shortlist represents a diverse range of talent from across the film industry. The five nominees have been chosen by a jury of industry experts, including previous winners and casting directors.
The full list of nominees includes:
- Chase Infiniti - A breakout star making waves in independent cinema.
- Miles Caton - Recognized for powerful performances in dramatic roles.
- Robert Aramayo - Known for his compelling character work.
- Marisa Abela - Celebrated for her transition from television to film.
- Eddie Marsan - A veteran actor receiving recognition for his recent leading work.
This selection highlights the Academy's commitment to recognizing both fresh faces and established actors who are reaching new heights in their careers. The public vote mechanism ensures that fans can champion their favorite performers.
"This award is voted for by the British public and is one of the most exciting awards of the night."
— Bafta Spokesperson
A Prestigious Legacy
The Bafta Rising Star Award has a storied history of launching careers onto the international stage. Former recipients of this prestigious award have gone on to achieve critical acclaim and box office success.
Previous winners include some of the most recognizable names in modern cinema. The award serves as a significant career milestone, often leading to increased visibility and major role offers.
This award is voted for by the British public and is one of the most exciting awards of the night.
For the 2026 nominees, this recognition places them in the company of past winners who have shaped the landscape of contemporary film. The public vote adds an element of excitement, allowing fans to participate directly in the celebration of new talent.
The Selection Process
The journey to the shortlist is rigorous. A panel of industry judges reviews hundreds of performances from the previous year to select the final five nominees.
Criteria for selection include:
- Demonstrated acting ability in a breakout role.
- Potential for future career growth.
- Engaging screen presence and charisma.
- Contribution to the diversity of film.
Once the nominees are announced, the power shifts to the audience. Public voting remains open until the day of the ceremony, allowing film enthusiasts worldwide to cast their ballot for the actor they believe has the brightest future.
Looking Ahead
The announcement of the Rising Star nominees sets the stage for an exciting awards season. All eyes will now turn to the ceremony, where the winner will be revealed in front of a global audience.
For Chase Infiniti, Miles Caton, and Robert Aramayo, this nomination alone serves as a powerful endorsement of their talent. The recognition places them firmly on the map as actors to watch in the coming years.
As the industry prepares to celebrate the best of British and international film, this category remains a fan favorite, offering a glimpse into the future of cinema.
