‘I Swear’ Star Robert Aramayo on the BAFTA N-Word Incident That Overshadowed the Movie and the ‘X-Men’ Wolverine Pitch He Keeps Hearing

Robert Aramayo’s rise to prominence has been marked by a unique blend of critical acclaim and personal challenges, particularly surrounding his portrayal of John Davidson in the biographical drama "I Swear." The film, directed by Kirk Jones, delves into the life of Davidson, a Scottish campaigner living with Tourette’s syndrome. Although it premiered in the U.K. in October and later in the U.S. in April through Sony Pictures Classics, Aramayo’s work caught significant attention early in the awards season, culminating in a remarkable BAFTA night in February 2024.

At the 79th British Academy Film Awards, Aramayo achieved an unprecedented feat by securing both the Rising Star Award and Best Leading Actor. This dual win distinguished him from prominent contenders including Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Michael B. Jordan, many of whom were also Oscar nominees. Despite the film’s delayed U.S. release, which postponed its eligibility for the Academy Awards, Aramayo has positioned himself as a compelling contender in this year’s Oscar race, facing a competitive field with actors like Andrew Scott and Pedro Pascal.

The BAFTA ceremony, however, was overshadowed by a highly publicized incident involving Davidson himself. Sitting near a live microphone during the broadcast, Davidson’s involuntary vocal tics included the utterance of a racial slur, causing discomfort and drawing apologies from BAFTA organizers. Davidson subsequently left the event early and acknowledged feeling a profound sense of shame. This moment dominated media coverage, detracting from the film’s broader narrative and the significance of Aramayo’s performance.

Aramayo chooses to focus on the human story behind the headlines. He spent three months with Davidson and his family in preparation for the role, forming a close bond that informed his portrayal. The actor emphasizes that the film transcends a mere depiction of Tourette’s syndrome, instead offering an intimate look at Davidson’s life, ambitions, and the societal challenges he faces. Aramayo highlights the importance of presenting Davidson as a multifaceted individual beyond his diagnosis, aligned with the director’s vision to portray authentic human experiences.

Preparing for the role was both intimidating and humbling for Aramayo. The script’s complexity and the sensitivity required to accurately represent Tourette’s made the project daunting. Nevertheless, the involvement of respected charities like Tourette Scotland and Tourette’s Action, alongside Davidson’s active participation, provided reassurance and legitimacy. Aramayo’s immersive research revealed the varied manifestations of Tourette’s, including those less visible to the public eye, such as non-obvious tics and the associated chronic pain. This depth added layers to his understanding, highlighting the social isolation that many individuals with the condition endure.

Aramayo notes that societal perceptions of Tourette’s can differ greatly depending on the age of the individual and the nature of their tics. For instance, coprolalia—the involuntary utterance of offensive words—is often misunderstood and stigmatized, leading to complex social interactions. The actor reflects on the nuanced identity struggles portrayed in the film, such as Davidson’s conflicted feelings about using a device to manage his tics. This element symbolizes the broader tension between acceptance and suppression of one’s condition.

Following the BAFTA wins, Aramayo recalls a whirlwind of emotions and fragmented memories. The surreal experience of receiving two major awards in one night left him grappling with the moment’s gravity. Yet, the first person he sought backstage was Davidson, whose unwavering support remains a cornerstone of Aramayo’s journey. Their relationship, forged through shared commitment and empathy, underscores the authenticity at the heart of the film.

Beyond "I Swear," Aramayo is engaged in other notable projects, including his role alongside Peter Mullan in "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power." He praises Mullan’s professionalism and the collaborative atmosphere fostered by director Kirk Jones on set, which encouraged improvisation and creative freedom. Aramayo also expresses aspirations to work with acclaimed filmmakers such as Paul Thomas Anderson, emphasizing his continued dedication to challenging roles.

While the BAFTA broadcast controversy momentarily eclipsed the film’s message, Aramayo remains optimistic about its impact. He urges audiences to recognize the humanity in Davidson’s story and to educate themselves on Tourette’s syndrome, noting its prevalence among children and the need for greater public awareness. The actor’s candid reflections and ongoing advocacy highlight the importance of empathy and understanding in reshaping narratives around disability and difference.