The 2026 British Academy Film Awards, otherwise known as the BAFTAs celebrates the best in British film and international film contributions. It’s the British version of the Oscars, with this year celebrating U.S. movies like “One Battle After Another,” “Marty Supreme,” and “Sinners.”
Held at London’s Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall on Feb. 22, the evening brought out dozens of stars who dazzled on the red carpet in striking designer gowns and sharp tuxedos. Among the standout moments, “Hamnet” actor Paul Mescal stepped out alongside singer Gracie Abrams, marking the pair’s official red carpet debut together.
Paul Mescal & Gracie Abrams Make Their Red Carpet Debut at the 2026 BAFTAs
GettyWhile the night honored the year’s best in film and television, the 2026 BAFTAs also marked a milestone moment for Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams. The ceremony became one that the couple will never forget, as they made their official red carpet debut after first being linked in June 2024.
According to Harper’s Bazaar, Mescal, 30, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Hamnet,” arrived on the carpet wearing a black Prada suit, leaving the bow tie at home, and letting the collar of his white shirt open for a more relaxed feel.
Meanwhile, Abrams, 26, dazzled in a Chanel dress from Matthieu Blazy’s 2026 Métiers d’art collection. The ethereal design showcased intricate ocean-inspired motifs throughout, accented with shimmering teal-blue beadwork.
Posing for pictures, one snapshot showed the songstress planting a kiss on Mescal’s cheek as he held her close.
Mescal & Abrams Relationship Timeline
GettyAbrams and Mescal were first spotted together in June 2024, whenTMZ shared a photo of them in London, in what appeared to be a date, as Mescal was seen reaching over to touch Abrams’ face. That August, the Daily Mail confirmed they were a couple after being seen “kissing a lot” during an outing in London.
In October 2024, Mescal supported Abrams when she began opening for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. According to NME, the actor was spotted in the VIP section during Swift’s stop in Miami, Florida.
In return, Abrams supported Mescal at the Cannes Film Festival premiere of “The History of Sound” in May 2025, though she walked the red carpet solo. By that summer, Abrams shared Instagram photos with Mescal, including when they attended a concert with friends in July.
In February, Abrams dedicated an Instagram post celebrating Mescal and a good friend’s birthday. “P❤️ Clemmy❤️ My whole heart!!!!!!!!! I love February 2… Happy birthday❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️I love you both more than words could ever describe. Thank you for making everything better,” she captioned the images.
