Akinola Davies Jr. Named in 2025 BAFTA Breakthroughs Class

The British Academy has announced its 2025 cohort for the BAFTA Breakthrough U.K. program, featuring a selection of 20 emerging talents in film, television, and games. Among those recognized is Akinola Davies Jr., whose directorial debut, My Father’s Shadow, garnered significant attention at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving a special mention from the Un Certain Regard jury. The film has also been chosen to represent the United Kingdom at the Oscars and leads the nominations for this weekend’s British Independent Film Awards.

Established in 2019, the BAFTA Breakthrough initiative, supported by Netflix, aims to identify and nurture creatives poised for significant career advancements. Participants benefit from a range of opportunities, including personalized career guidance, access to BAFTA’s industry networking events, and voting membership for the BAFTA awards. This program has successfully assisted over 330 individuals across various disciplines, including screenwriters, actors, and directors.

Jane Millichip, CEO of BAFTA, expressed her enthusiasm for the latest cohort, stating, “It is an absolute pleasure to welcome this year’s outstanding participants of BAFTA Breakthrough. For 12 years, this BAFTA talent programme has supported creatives and practitioners in film, games, and television to navigate the often complex corridors of the screen arts.” She also acknowledged Netflix’s ongoing support, highlighting its commitment to fostering opportunities for UK talent from diverse backgrounds.

The full list of the 2025 BAFTA Breakthrough U.K. cohort includes notable names such as:

– Alderney Middleton – series producer for “Maddie + Triggs”
– Cara Ellison – writer/narrative designer for “Ghost Town”
– Ellis Howard – performer in “What It Feels Like for a Girl”
– Jodie-Simone Howe – costume designer for “Mr Loverman”
– Kyle Banks – director of “Farewell North”
– Laura Carreira – director/writer of “On Falling”
– Marie-Elena Dyche – producer of “Harvest”
– Mark Choi – composer for “Empire of the Ants”
– Matthew Gurney – performer in “Reunion”
– Megumi Inman – co-director/producer of “Atomic People”
– Nathalie Pitters – director of photography for “Brian and Maggie”
– Nathaniel Price – writer/associate producer for “Mr Loverman”
– Olaide Sadiq – director of “Grenfell: Uncovered”
– Owen Tooth – director of “EastEnders”
– Pinny Grylls – director/writer/editor for “Grand Theft Hamlet”
– Sally Beaumont – lead voice actor/script consultant for “Old Skies”
– Stanley Baxton – solo developer for “LATEX, LEATHER, LIPSTICK, LOVE, LUST”
– Stephanie Taylor – composer for “The Search for Nicola Bulley”
– Vivian Eguridu – series casting producer for “Love is Blind UK” series 1

The talent identified through the BAFTA Breakthrough program reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting the next generation of creatives in the screen arts. With continued backing from Netflix, this initiative promises to further enhance the careers of filmmakers and artists in the UK and beyond. The announcement of the Breakthrough U.S. talent is expected in December, further broadening the initiative’s impact.