The BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role is an annual accolade presented by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). It recognizes outstanding performances by male actors in leading roles in films released during the previous year. The award is part of the BAFTA Film Awards, which celebrate excellence in the film industry. Winners are selected by BAFTA members, who vote on nominees from a shortlist created by a panel of experts. The award has been given since 1968 and is considered one of the most prestigious honors in the film industry, often influencing other awards like the Academy Awards.