IFTA success for RADA Graduates

Congratulations to RADA Graduates Jessie Buckley, Ciarán Hinds and Chris Walley for their wins at the Irish Film and Televison Academy (IFTA) Awards on Friday 20 February 2026.

Jessie Buckley was named Best Lead Actress – Film for her role as Agnes in in Chloé Zhao’s adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet. Jessie continues her sweep of awards season with Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice wins and nominations at the BAFTAs, Actor Awards and Oscars.

Chris Walley was named Best Supporting Actor – Drama for his performance as Jock in acclaimed coming-of-age sitcom The Young Offenders. This is Chris’s second IFTA win for the role.

Ciarán Hinds received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the screen industry across fifty years. Ciarán graduated from RADA in 1975 and is renowned for his performances in film, television and theatre, including Belfast, Game of Thrones and Girl From the North Country. He has won five IFTAs and received nominations for BAFTAs, Oscars and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

A number of RADA graduates received nominations at this year’s IFTA awards, which celebrates Irish talent in film and television. Fiona Shaw received a nomination for Lead Actress – Film for Hot Milk. James McArdle was nominated for Best International Actor for Four Mothers.

Congratulations to all the winners.