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Jessie Buckley shared her heartfelt reaction after winning a BAFTA Award with fellow Irish actor Cillian Murphy by her side. The moment occurred on February 22, 2026, at the 79th British Academy Film Awards.

The 36-year-old actress won Best Leading Actress for her role in Hamnet, becoming the first Irish woman to receive this honor. The win marked a historic milestone in her career.

Speaking on the February 25 episode of The One Show, Buckley described the night as unforgettable. She praised Murphy for making the moment even more special.

“It’s been a lot to take in over the last few days,” the Wicked Little Letters star said. “To walk up to somebody that I know and recognise, who’s Irish and an actor I deeply respect and admire, and share that moment with him, was really special. I won’t forget it. I might have had a few margaritas.”

During her acceptance speech, Buckley reflected on her journey into acting. She shared how she dreamed of being on screen as a child, never imagining a role like this could happen.

“This is such an incredible honour. As a little girl, I never thought in a million years I would be allowed to make a film. But here I am,” she said.

The actress also recalled her first meeting with her agent Lindy King in London. Dressed in a red polka-dot skirt, white hoop earrings, and a bold fake tan, Buckley had the audacity to dream big. “I dreamed to someday be something like Judi Dench,” she admitted. She thanked King for encouraging her to stay curious, disobedient, and human.

Buckley credited the women in her life who guided her and taught her to approach challenges differently.

This year, she also won the Critic’s Choice Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in Hamnet. Her success continues as she is now nominated for Best Actress at the 2026 Academy Awards, set for March 16.

Buckley’s BAFTA win celebrates not only her talent but also her determination and journey. Sharing the stage with Murphy made the victory even more meaningful, solidifying a night she says she will never forget.

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