BAFTA has selected 21 emerging creatives for its 2026 UK Breakthrough cohort, Variety reported. Participants across film, television and games receive year-round career support, mentorship, networking opportunities and full BAFTA membership.
A cohort spanning screen disciplines
Actors Ella Bruccoleri from The Other Bennet Sister, Izuka Hoyle from Prisoner and Sophie Stone from Falling are among the television participants. The selection also includes production designer Philippa Mumford, creator Tom Cousins and Emmerdale writer Yassmin Abdel-Magied.
Film participants include producer Hollie Bryan and writer-directors Louis Paxton, Imran Perretta and Ted Evans, alongside casting, hair and makeup specialists. Documentary and unscripted participants include Myrid Carten, Chris Lynch and Runako Celina.
Five games creatives were selected, among them The Pirate Queen: No Safe Waters writer-director Eloise Singer, Rogue Eclipse developer Husban Siddiqi and Pieced Together creative director Kate Killick. Niru Fekri-Arnold and performer Tom McKay complete that group.
Support aimed at lasting careers
Now in its 13th year, Breakthrough is supported by Netflix for a seventh consecutive year. The partnership forms part of the streamer's Generation N initiative for emerging and mid-career UK talent.
BAFTA chief executive Jane Millichip emphasised the programme's role in providing the connections and guidance needed for sustainable careers. Alumni include Florence Pugh, Tom Holland, Jessie Buckley, Josh O'Connor, Bella Ramsey and Letitia Wright.
More than 330 creatives have participated globally, collectively earning over 200 BAFTA nominations and more than 80 wins. BAFTA North America is expected to announce its US cohort later in November.