“She said, ‘Are you on your own?’, and I said, ‘No’. I was with my two friends. She said, ‘You need to go somewhere private.’ So I found out, cried, and then had to not say anything.”
Meanwhile, Aramayo, who played the lead role in I Swear, based on the true life story of Tourette’s syndrome campaigner John Davidson, said his parents were “crying and jumping” when he informed them of his nomination.
The 33-year-old actor said: “I told my parents. There was a lot of crying and jumping, it was quite intense.
“Today is a day I will never forget. The artists nominated alongside me this year and those who’ve been recognised by the EE Rising Star Award before set a standard that continues to inspire me. If young Robert only knew he’d be standing here as an EE Rising Star nominee today, he’d be very proud.”
Madekwe, 30, said: “It’s an incredible honour. I think as a Brit, the EE Rising Star Award has particular significance.
“So many of my favourite actors have been nominated for this award, so it’s completely surreal to be included this year, and alongside such an incredible group. I feel very lucky.”
Infiniti, 25, said: “This nomination means the world to me. It’s been such a transformative year in my career and I feel honoured and grateful to be considered for this award. Thank you to Bafta, EE and all the jurors for including me alongside this tremendous group of actors.”
Caton, 20, said: “Thank you to Bafta, EE and the jury for this nomination – it’s truly surreal. I’m honoured to be recognised alongside such talented artists and I’m grateful to everyone who supports and champions new voices in film.”
The prestigious EE Rising Star Award is the only prize at the EE Bafta Film Awards voted for by the British public.
Voting is now open at ee.co.uk/BAFTA, via WhatsApp and across EE socials until February 20.
The winner will be announced on February 23 at the EE Bafta Film Awards ceremony, aired on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
