The BAFTA Rising Star Award celebrates emerging talent that has captivated audiences and critics. Each nominee represents not just exceptional skill but also the hard work, perseverance, and passion required to make an impact in the world of screen acting. This year’s nominees are no exception, with performances that inspire and resonate with actors everywhere.

We take a look at the nominees, and the inspiration you can take from these rising stars. Whether you’re new to acting, or further on in your career you never know when you might have a break through.

Marisa Abela – Back to Black

Portraying the iconic Amy Winehouse in Back to Black, Marisa Abela delivers a deeply emotional and layered performance. Her ability to embody such a complex figure highlights the importance of research, preparation, and fearlessness in tackling challenging roles.

Lesson for Actors:
Embrace vulnerability and dig deep into your characters. Whether it’s through method acting, dialect training, or emotional recall, commit fully to the role to bring authenticity to your performance. This is a clear example of an actor acquiring the skills they needed to bring this role to life.

Mikey Madison – Anora

In Anora, Mikey Madison showcases raw intensity, proving that taking risks and delivering bold choices can set you apart as an actor. Her performance demonstrates the value of trusting your instincts and fully inhabiting the emotional core of a character.

Lesson for Actors:
Don’t be afraid to take risks in your performances. Bold choices often leave lasting impressions and showcase your unique perspective as an actor. Whether that’s in your self-tape, in the audition or on set.

Jharrel Jerome – Unstoppable

Known for his award-winning work in When They See Us, Jharrel Jerome continues to redefine acting excellence in Unstoppable. His ability to connect with his characters on a deeply emotional level highlights the power of empathy and emotional range.

Lesson for Actors:
Build a strong connection with your character. Understanding their background, emotions, and motivations will elevate your performance and make it unforgettable. Jharrel Jerome is a great example of someone who brings a part of themselves to the role, and we often refer to acting as ‘You as the character’ – he is a great example of this.

Nabhaan Rizwan – In Camera

Nabhaan Rizwan shines in In Camera, a film that explores the limits of storytelling. His versatility and commitment to each project he undertakes remind actors of the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning.

Lesson for Actors:
Stay versatile and open to growth. Are you getting self-tapes and auditions, but not getting the role? Maybe you’re pushing yourself towards the wrong roles. Taking on diverse roles challenges your skills and broadens your range, ensuring you’re always evolving as an artist.

David Jonsson – Alien: Romulus

David Jonsson transitions from his breakthrough in Industry to an intense performance in Alien: Romulus. His career showcases the power of networking and maintaining relationships within the industry while consistently delivering high-quality work.

Lesson for Actors:
Focus on building relationships and always bring your best to every role, no matter the size. Reputation and reliability go hand-in-hand with talent. You never know where any member of the crew could be in a few years time, they could be the one giving you an opportunity.

The BAFTA Rising Star nominees of 2025 are not only talented but also a testament to what hard work, dedication, and creative passion can achieve. For actors aspiring to follow in their footsteps, their careers are an inspiring roadmap of what’s possible.

🎭 Ready to take the next step in your acting journey? Join us for transformative courses designed to bring out the star in you. View Our Upcoming Courses.