The 2026 BAFTAs: A Night of Cinematic Celebration and Emerging Trends
The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards are set to unfold on Sunday, February 22nd, at London’s Royal Festival Hall. For viewers in the U.S., E! will be the destination for red carpet coverage and the ceremony itself. Across the pond, the BBC will broadcast the event on BBC One and create it available on BBC iPlayer.
Leading the Pack: Nominees and Frontrunners
This year’s nominations are dominated by Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” and Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” with 14 and 13 nominations respectively. Both films are vying for Best Film, Director, and leading actor/actress awards. Chloe Zhao’s “Hamnet” also features prominently in the Best Picture lineup, alongside “Marty Supreme” and “Sentimental Value.”
A Historic Night for Female Directors
Chloe Zhao’s inclusion in the Director category is particularly noteworthy. With seven BAFTA nominations and two wins already for “Nomadland,” Zhao has made history with “Hamnet” becoming the most-nominated film by a female director. She is also the only female director nominated this year.
The Contenders: Acting Categories
The competition for acting honors is fierce. Jesse Plemons, Robert Aramayo, Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, and Michael B. Jordan are all nominated for Leading Actor. Jessie Buckley, Rose Byrne, Kate Hudson, Chase Infiniti, Renate Reinsve, and Emma Stone are competing for the Leading Actress award.
Shifting Broadcast Landscape
The broadcast rights for the BAFTAs have seen changes in recent years, with Britbox previously holding the U.S. Rights. This year’s return to E! signals a continued evolution in how awards shows reach audiences.
The Rise of KPop Influence
The awards ceremony will feature a performance by EJAE, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, the singing voices from KPop Demon Hunters, marking their first UK performance. This inclusion highlights the growing global influence of KPop and its increasing presence in mainstream entertainment events.
Alan Cumming at the Helm
Actor Alan Cumming will host the awards, bringing his experience and personality to the event. He also recently presented “Traitors US.”
FAQ
- Where can I watch the BAFTAs in the UK? You can watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
- Where can I watch the BAFTAs in the US? You can watch on E!.
- Which films lead the nominations? “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners” lead with 14 and 13 nominations respectively.
- Who is hosting the BAFTAs? Alan Cumming is hosting the ceremony.
Pro Tip: Catch up on nominated films available on BBC iPlayer before the ceremony to form your own opinions!
What are your predictions for the winners? Share your thoughts in the comments below and explore more film news on our site.
