James Nelson-Joyce proudly represented Liverpool at the BAFTA TV Awards held on May 10, 2026. The Walton-born actor has been nominated for Best Leading Actor for his role as Michael Kavanagh in the series *This City Is Ours*. In a remarkable category, four out of six nominees for Best Leading Actor hail from Merseyside.
Notable Nominees from Liverpool
Joining Nelson-Joyce at the prestigious ceremony were fellow actors Stephen Graham, Ellis Howard, and Taron Egerton. Christine Tremarco also featured prominently, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Manda Miller in *Adolescence*.
An Emotional Journey
In an interview with El-Balad, James expressed the emotional significance of the evening. He reflected on a touching moment shared with his family. “It feels weird to be here at the BAFTAs. My dad said, ‘from County Road to the BAFTAs lad,’ and I said, ‘I know, it is mad,’” he shared.
James highlighted the sense of community in Liverpool, stating, “We are from the greatest city in the world. They will try to hold us back, but we always find a way through.”
The Influence of Stephen Graham
Recognizing the role of established actors in helping newcomers, James acknowledged Stephen Graham’s impact on his career. “Stephen has opened the door for me and many others. He gives invaluable advice on auditions and agents,” he noted.
Despite competing against Graham for the BAFTA, James remains a supportive peer. “Stephen deserves everything. I am just very honored to be here,” he remarked.
Looking Ahead
This year promises to be pivotal for James Nelson-Joyce. He recently wrapped filming for the second season of *This City Is Ours*, teasing that viewers can expect “quite a few shocks.”
Moreover, he has been cast in the upcoming period heist film *The Man Who Stole Portugal*, which features actors Richard E Grant and Dominic West. This film is based on the notable financial fraud of the 20th century and centers on James’s character, Alves Reis—a self-made outsider striving to create a better life for his family.
As 2026 unfolds, James Nelson-Joyce continues to rise as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, all while proudly representing the vibrant city of Liverpool.
