Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams make their red carpet couple debut at the 2026 BAFTA awards

It turns out the 2026 BAFTA awards were the site for much more than just film and television recognition. The most-celebrated night of British entertainment was also a night for comebacks, returns and debuts. Princess of Wales Kate Middleton returned to the awards function after a 3-year hiatus, Alia Bhatt made her debut and presented the award for the Best Foreign Language film while Kylie Jenner, who has been Timothée Chalamet's awards show constant, also made her BAFTA debut at the event. A first time appearance at the grand London function however, came in a pair as Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams chose the 2026 BAFTA awards to make their red carpet debut as a couple.

(Also Read: Kate Middleton returns to the 2026 BAFTA awards in her much-loved Gucci number)

The 30-year-old award-nominated Irish actor and the 26-year-old American singer, who is the daughter of filmmaker J.J.Abrams, were first rumoured to be a couple in June. Since then, they've maintained a mainly-private relationship despite both having careers revolving in the public eye. Earlier this year, they were spotted together at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles at a 2026 Golden Globes after-party. 

The couple kept their red carpet debut chic and low-key, just like their relationship. Gracie wore a black patterned Chanel from the designer label's 2026 Métiers d’art collection by Matthieu Blazy. It featured a high green-trimmed neckline, low back and patterns of fish swimming over its length. She paired the ensemble with black pumps, dangling earrings and her signature sleek bob haircut. Paul posed with his ladylove in a classic ensemble in shades of black and white. He wore a Prada suit sans a tie with a white shirt that he folded at the cuffs. 
 

The lauded actor previously won the BAFTA for Best Actor in 2023 and Best Supporting Actor in 2024. This year too, he was nominated for his role in Hamnet in the Supporting Actor category, which Sean Penn ultimately won for his role in One Battle After Another.

(Also Read: Alia Bhatt glitters at the 2026 BAFTA awards in a backless silver sequin Gucci gown)