The landscape of creative talent is constantly evolving, and the BAFTA Breakthrough program is shining a spotlight on the next generation of visionary artists, storytellers, and developers. But here's where it gets truly interesting—these emerging stars are not just rising, but are poised to make a significant impact across film, television, gaming, and beyond. And this is the part most people miss—their journeys are just beginning, and what they will accomplish next could reshape the industry as we know it.
The BAFTA Breakthrough US cohort for 2025 has been officially unveiled by BAFTA North America, showcasing a diverse group of talented individuals across various creative domains. Among them are Frida Pérez, a writer and producer with the acclaimed series The Studio; Miles Caton, whose compelling performance in the film Sinners has garnered international attention; and Karla Reyes, a visionary video game developer with a passion for social impact projects.
BAFTA Breakthrough is more than just an acknowledgement—it's a comprehensive, year-long mentorship program designed for those on the verge of their big break. Selected participants gain access to one-on-one mentorship, strategic career guidance, full voting membership rights within BAFTA, invitations to exclusive events and screenings, as well as invaluable opportunities to network both in the United Kingdom and internationally.
Celebrating its 6th anniversary this year, the US cohort continues to grow its reputation for highlighting outstanding new talent. Past alumni include notable creators such as composer Stephanie Economou, artist HIKARI, filmmaker Nava Mau, producer Bao Nguyen, and many more — each of whom has gone on to carve out impressive careers in their respective fields.
The complete list of this year’s BAFTA Breakthrough US cohort features an exciting array of innovators:
- Brandon Wilson, an actor known for his role in the Oscar-nominated film The Nickel Boys. His powerful performance earned him the 2024 Gotham Award for Breakthrough Performer.
- Brittany Shyne, an independent filmmaker and cinematographer exploring themes of personal history and cultural shifts. Her debut feature, Seeds, premiered at Sundance and took home the U.S. Documentary Grand Jury Award.
- Chase Infiniti, a young actress who gained recognition through her performances in One Battle After Another directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and the critically acclaimed series Presumed Innocent on Apple TV+. She recently wrapped filming on Hulu’s The Testaments, which continues her impressive trajectory.
- Erika Ishii, a genderfluid voice actor whose extensive work in gaming—including roles in Apex Legends, Mortal Kombat 1, and Dragon Age: The Veilguard—has made her a prominent figure in pop culture. She’s also known for her comedy work and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Eva Victor, an innovative writer, director, and actor whose first feature Sorry, Baby gained recognition by winning awards at Sundance and crossing major festivals like Cannes. Her work often addresses contemporary social issues with nuance.
- Frida Pérez, whose background as a Dominican-American from the Bronx has propelled her into the spotlight as an Emmy-winning creator of The Studio. Her storytelling has earned her accolades for outstanding writing and series development.
- Karla Reyes, a game developer from New York City, founded Anima Interactive. Her studio’s Take Us North has been featured at major festivals such as Tribeca and SXSW, and she actively promotes using games for social impact.
- Mia Cioffi Henry, a talented cinematographer with work showcased at Cannes, Venice, Berlinale, and Sundance. Her background in dance and visual arts infuses her projects with a unique, character-driven aesthetic.
- Miles Caton, an actor and musician whose breakout role in Sinners earned widespread praise. He has cultivated a growing music career alongside his acting, including his debut single Somethin.
- Paige Bethmann, a Haudenosaunee filmmaker recognized for her documentary Remaining Native, which won awards at SXSW. Her storytelling often emphasizes Indigenous perspectives.
- Xalavier Nelson Jr., a visionary studio head and writer involved in several major titles, including I Am Your Beast and Borderlands 4. His diverse talents extend into comics and voice acting.
Supported by Apple TV, this year’s BAFTA Breakthrough US initiative seeks to nurture talented voices across all facets of storytelling—from film and television to video games and animation. The program’s mission is to uplift creators from varied backgrounds, fostering innovation and diversity in the narrative arts.
The future of entertainment and media is bright with stars like these emerging on the scene. As these creators continue to develop their craft and tell compelling stories, it’s worth asking: what impact will they have on the industry’s future? Are we truly supporting the right voices? Share your thoughts and join the conversation about the transformative power of new talent in entertainment.
