UPDATE: The British Academy has just announced the **2025 BAFTA Breakthrough U.K.** cohort, featuring **20 emerging talents** in film, TV, and games. Among those highlighted is **Akinola Davies Jr.**, whose directorial debut, **“My Father’s Shadow,”** has already made waves at the **Cannes Film Festival**.
The film garnered a special mention from the **Un Certain Regard** jury and will represent the U.K. at the upcoming **Oscars**, setting the stage for a thrilling awards season. It leads the nominations heading into this weekend’s **British Independent Film Awards**, making Davies a name to watch closely.
This prestigious initiative, supported by **Netflix** since **2019**, aims to propel creatives at a pivotal moment in their careers. Participants receive invaluable resources, including one-on-one meetings, career guidance, full BAFTA voting membership, and access to exclusive networking events both in the U.K. and internationally.
Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA, expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s cohort, stating, “It is an absolute pleasure to welcome this year’s outstanding participants of BAFTA Breakthrough.” She emphasized the program’s significance over the last **12 years** in helping creatives navigate the complexities of the screen arts industry.
This year’s cohort includes a diverse range of talents:
– **Alderney Middleton** – series producer (“Maddie + Triggs”)
– **Cara Ellison** – writer/narrative designer (“Ghost Town”)
– **Ellis Howard** – performer (“What It Feels Like for a Girl”)
– **Jodie-Simone Howe** – costume designer (“Mr Loverman”)
– **Kyle Banks** – director (“Farewell North”)
– **Laura Carreira** – director/writer (“On Falling”)
– **Mark Choi** – composer (“Empire of the Ants”)
– **Sally Beaumont** – lead voice actor/script consultant (“Old Skies”)
The **full list** showcases the incredible talent emerging from the U.K. entertainment industry. With over **330 participants** having benefited from the program globally, the BAFTA Breakthrough initiative continues to champion diverse voices, including notable alumni such as **Letitia Wright** and **Bella Ramsey**.
With the BAFTA North America team set to announce the **Breakthrough U.S.** talents in December, all eyes will be on how this year’s U.K. cohort evolves in their careers and potentially shapes the future of film and television.
As the creative landscape shifts rapidly, the spotlight on Akinola Davies Jr. and his fellow nominees reflects the ongoing evolution of the industry, making this announcement an essential moment for fans and industry insiders alike. Stay tuned for more updates as the awards season heats up!