Robert Aramayo Shines in Heartfelt Film ‘I Swear’ as John Davidson

Robert Aramayo stars in the new film I Swear, portraying John Davidson, a Tourette’s syndrome activist whose story is both poignant and humorous. Directed by Kirk Jones, the film highlights Davidson’s life, from a misunderstood teenager in 1980s Scotland to a recognized advocate. The film premiered to critical acclaim at the Toronto Film Festival and has already grossed over $6.5 million in the UK.

Aramayo did not initially audition for the role. Instead, he was invited by Jones to meet Davidson in Galashiels, Scotland. The director had considered casting someone with Tourette’s but opted for Aramayo, who has previously gained recognition for roles such as young Ned Stark in Game of Thrones and Elrond in The Rings of Power.

“I had a duty, both to John and to the Tourette’s community, to get it right,” Aramayo said during a recent Zoom interview. His commitment to authenticity included shadowing Davidson in his everyday life, participating in activities such as walks with Davidson’s dog and working at a local community center. Aramayo emphasized that his goal was to understand Davidson, not simply to imitate him.

The film opens dramatically, depicting a moment before Davidson receives an MBE from Queen Elizabeth. In a humorous yet impactful scene, he exclaims, “Fuck the queen!” This moment underscores the film’s exploration of the challenges faced by those with Tourette’s, particularly the stereotype of coprolalia, which affects only about one in ten individuals with the condition.

Aramayo dedicated himself to mastering Davidson’s accent and mannerisms, collaborating with a movement coach and a dialogue trainer. He shared, “I think I convinced Kirk and John with my work ethic and approach to the material.” This dedication has positioned him as a strong contender for accolades, including a recent nomination for Best Lead Actor at the British Independent Film Awards.

Raised in Hull, England, Aramayo’s journey to acting began at a young age, inspired by his sister’s performances. Instead of following a traditional path through London drama schools, he sought out Juilliard, which he discovered through an online search. “I didn’t know anything about Juilliard when I went,” he admitted, maintaining a strong connection to his Yorkshire roots.

The film’s success has led to its acquisition by Sony Pictures Classics for American distribution, with expectations for international interest as well. Aramayo remains humble about his growing recognition, stating, “I have a great, amazing job. It’s just a privilege to be able to come to work every day and do this.”

With its heartfelt narrative and Aramayo’s compelling performance, I Swear offers audiences a unique glimpse into the life of John Davidson, blending humor with a deep understanding of the complexities of Tourette’s syndrome. The film stands as a testament to the power of empathy and the importance of telling authentic human stories.