The 2025 EE BAFTA Rising Star Award spotlighted a dynamic group of emerging actors whose performances have captivated audiences and critics alike. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this prestigious accolade—BAFTA's only award voted for by the public—honors performers who have demonstrated exceptional talent and are poised for significant impact in the film industry.
🌟 Winner: David Jonsson
British actor David Jonsson clinched the 2025 EE Rising Star Award, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. Jonsson's portrayal of the synthetic human Andy in Alien: Romulus garnered widespread acclaim, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor. His previous work includes standout performances in the BBC/HBO series Industry and the romantic comedy Rye Lane. Looking ahead, Jonsson is set to appear in upcoming projects such as Wasteman, The Long Walk, and Scandalous.
Reflecting on his win, Jonsson expressed: “I’ve got to be honest; this isn’t why I do it. I’m just an East London boy... But this award is about people, and as long as we can keep telling stories about people, I think there’s got to be a space for me.”
🎬 The 2025 Nominees: A Closer Look
Marisa Abela
Marisa Abela delivered a compelling performance as Amy Winehouse in the biopic Back to Black, earning her critical acclaim. Known for her role as Yasmin Kara-Hanani in Industry, Abela continues to showcase her range and depth as an actress. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), she is set to co-star alongside Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett in Steven Soderbergh’s upcoming thriller Black Bag.
Jharrel Jerome
American actor Jharrel Jerome gained attention for his lead role in the biopic Unstoppable, portraying wrestler Anthony Robles. Jerome's previous accolades include an Emmy Award for his performance in When They See Us and a role in the Academy Award-winning film Moonlight.
Mikey Madison
Mikey Madison's portrayal in Sean Baker’s Anora earned her critical acclaim, contributing to the film's win of the Palme d’Or at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Madison has also appeared in Scream 5 and Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, demonstrating her versatility across genres.
Nabhaan Rizwan
British actor Nabhaan Rizwan received recognition for his role in the independent film In Camera, which explores the challenges faced by aspiring actors. Rizwan's previous work includes the BBC thriller Informer and the series KAOS, where he starred alongside Jeff Goldblum.
🎥 Looking Ahead
The 2025 EE BAFTA Rising Star nominees represent a diverse and talented group of actors poised to make significant contributions to the film industry. Their recent performances have not only garnered critical acclaim but also resonated with audiences worldwide. As they take on new and challenging roles, these rising stars are set to shape the future of cinema.
