As the excitement surrounding the BAFTA nominations builds, actors Robert Aramayo and Posy Sterling took a moment to savor a post-party meal at London’s renowned Regency Café. For Aramayo, this was a delightful first experience with a quintessential British snack—a crisp sandwich, highlighting his journey from the Hull Truck Youth Theatre to the prestigious Juilliard School and his remarkable roles in iconic series such as Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
Aramayo’s recent portrayal of John Davidson in the biopic I Swear has been a pivotal moment in his career, earning him a spot on this year’s BAFTA Rising Star Award shortlist and a nomination for Best Leading Actor. His performance not only captivated audiences but also aimed to shine a light on the realities of living with Tourette’s syndrome. He expressed gratitude for being involved in a project that strives to educate and engage viewers rather than simply delivering a message. In his preparation, he immersed himself in the Tourette’s community and connected deeply with Davidson to authentically represent the character’s experiences. The positive reception to his performance has been overwhelming, with audience interactions leading to memorable exchanges, including gifts inspired by his role.
Sterling, too, has made a significant impact with her performance in Lollipop, where she plays a single mother fighting to regain custody of her children after being released from prison. Her powerful portrayal has garnered her the Breakthrough Performance BIFA award and initiated important conversations regarding the systemic issues faced by women in similar circumstances. Sterling tearfully elaborated on her passion for the project, emphasizing how critical it is for stories like these to be told in a way that fosters understanding and connection without blame. Her commitment to advocacy has led her to discussions at the Houses of Parliament, further amplifying the film’s message.
Looking towards the future, Sterling is branching out with diverse projects, including Channel 4’s upcoming drama, Dirty Business, which examines real-world issues related to whistleblowing. She expresses a newfound determination to explore different genres and narratives as she continues her artistic journey, noting significant moments of growth along the way. Aramayo shares similar sentiments about the collaborative nature of the acting community, acknowledging the invaluable lessons learned from seasoned actors like Peter Mullan and his aspirations to remain open to new experiences.
Both actors cherish the balance between theater and film, with Sterling emphasizing the vitality of theater in an actor’s development, while recognizing the unique storytelling capabilities of film. Aramayo is currently performing in a West End production, believing that every experience shapes him as an artist. As they navigate the unpredictable nature of acting, both Sterling and Aramayo remain hopeful and eager for new opportunities, embodying the spirit of curiosity that keeps them passionate about their craft. With their impressive talents and dedication to impactful storytelling, the future looks bright for both rising stars in the industry.