Jessie Buckley Wins Best Actress at the 2026 BAFTAs

Jessie Buckley secured the Best Actress award at the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) on February 22, 2026, for her portrayal of Agnes Shakespeare in Chloé Zhao’s film *Hamnet*. This victory marks a significant milestone as Buckley becomes the first Irish performer to win the Best Actress prize at the BAFTAs. The ceremony took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London, where Buckley expressed gratitude in her acceptance speech, stating, “This really does belong to the women past, present and future who taught me and continue to teach me how to do it differently.”

The Irish Times

Buckley's win at the BAFTAs follows her recent triumph at the Irish Film and Television Academy awards, further solidifying her status as a frontrunner in the ongoing awards season. She shared a heartfelt moment during her speech, dedicating her award to her daughter, emphasizing the importance of motherhood in her life and career. “It’s the best role of my life being your mum,” she remarked, highlighting her commitment to raising her daughter in a world that embraces individuality.

The Irish Times

The BAFTAs also recognized other significant achievements in film. Richard Baneham won Best Special Visual Effects for *Avatar: Fire and Ash*, while Robert Aramayo surprised many by winning Best Actor for his role in *I Swear*, defeating established stars like Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio. *Hamnet* received accolades as Best British Film but lost the overall Best Film award to *One Battle After Another*, which took home six BAFTAs, including Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson.

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Alan Cumming, who co-hosted the event, remarked on the importance of celebrating creativity in film, stating, “We’re here this evening to celebrate creativity, the very best of film in all its glory.” The ceremony also marked a notable public appearance by Prince William and Princess Kate, following recent controversies involving the royal family.

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Looking ahead, Jessie Buckley is set to compete at the Actor Awards (formerly the Screen Actors Guild Awards) next Saturday and the Oscars on March 15, 2026. Should she win the Academy Award, she would become the first Irishwoman to achieve this honor, further enhancing her legacy in the film industry.

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• “This is nuts,” — Jessie Buckley, Best Actress Winner

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• “Thank you Bafta for this incredible honour,” — Wunmi Mosaku, Best Supporting Actress Winner

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• “I have to say go raibh maith agat to Jim Cameron, our visionary director,” — Richard Baneham, Best Special Visual Effects Winner

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This year's BAFTAs highlighted the remarkable achievements of artists in the film industry, with Jessie Buckley at the forefront of this celebration.

The Irish Times