At the EE BAFTA Film Awards 2026, EE transformed one of the UK’s most iconic cultural moments into a truly shared national celebration. Powered by its cutting-edge 5G+ network, EE broke down geographical barriers and brought film fans directly onto the red carpet — live.
From the glamour of the red carpet to exclusive backstage access on the Winner’s Run, EE demonstrated how connectivity can redefine how audiences experience live events. As the UK’s best network, the brand used immersive holographic technology to create unforgettable, real-time interactions between celebrities and fans.
The UK’s Love Affair With Film
EE’s latest research of 2,000 Britons (conducted by One Poll in February 2026) revealed just how central film is to British life:
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The average Brit watches 60 films a year
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46% say films help them connect with friends and family
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One in five are watching more films than ever before
It’s clear that cinema remains a shared national passion — whether streaming at home or attending major events like the BAFTAs.
For more on BAFTA and its work supporting film talent, visit the official BAFTA website.
Bath Named the UK’s ‘Cinephile Capital’
In a fitting tribute to the nation’s love of film, EE invited fans from Bath — recently crowned the UK’s “Cinephile Capital” after EE data revealed residents stream more films per capita than any other UK town — to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Using EE’s 5G+ network and holographic technology, film lovers from Bath appeared as life-size holograms on the BAFTA red carpet. The 166-mile digital bridge enabled stars to interact with fans in real time, turning spectators into participants on one of the biggest nights in the film calendar.
Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo Host EE’s Red Carpet Experience
Leading the holographic experience were EE Red Carpet Hosts Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo. Appearing together in their first joint hosting role since welcoming their first child, the couple brought warmth and humour to the EE Stage.
Reflecting on the night, they said:
“It was such an honour to be a part of an EE BAFTA first as we gave deserving film fans the night of a lifetime. The awards truly celebrate creativity and storytelling at the highest level but tonight felt extra special. It wasn’t just about what was happening inside the ceremony, it was also about celebrating the UK’s love of film and bringing audiences closer to the action through the power of the EE network.”
Stars Meet Holographic Fans
A host of major names interacted live with fans beamed in from Bath, including:
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Aimee Lou Wood
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Alan Cumming
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Mia McKenna-Bruce
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Wagner Moura
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Vogue Williams
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EE Rising Star nominees Robert Aramayo, Miles Caton and Archie Madekwe
Standout Red Carpet Moments
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Aimee Lou Wood revealed she’d place her The White Lotus character into Sinners, saying:
“I would put Chelsea from The White Lotus into Sinners so she could live forever…”
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Jacobi Jupe shared his favourite film of the year, joking:
“My favourite film of the year was Marty Supreme. I don’t know if I was allowed to see it… but I loved it!”
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Jay Lycurgo offered advice to aspiring actors:
“Acting is a true rollercoaster… you have to really believe in yourself and your authenticity. It’s about playing the long game.”
The holographic innovation showcased how EE’s 5G+ network enables seamless, meaningful live connections — extending the celebration beyond the venue and into communities across the UK.
Backstage Inspiration From Industry Icons
Backstage, stars spoke with EE and 15-year-old BAFTA Young Presenter Jeriah Kibusi, sharing powerful advice for emerging creatives.
Among them:
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Jessie Buckley:
“If you’re really passionate about anything in life, you have to go for it…”
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Kerry Washington:
“This requires a lot of resilience and strength and faith…”
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Bryan Cranston:
“If you don’t take a chance, you will never know if you will succeed.”
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Stormzy:
“Be brave and be brilliant.”
The emotional and motivational exchanges reinforced EE’s commitment to supporting the next generation of creative talent.
A 29-Year Cultural Partnership
Now in its twenty-ninth year, the partnership between EE and BAFTA remains one of the UK’s longest-standing cultural collaborations. Together, they continue championing creative excellence and ensuring film remains a shared national moment — wherever audiences are watching.
By merging technology and storytelling at the EE BAFTA Film Awards 2026, EE proved that the future of live entertainment is immersive, inclusive and powered by connectivity.
