Celebrated Irish actor Andrew Scott is stepping further behind the camera at this year’s SXSW Film & TV Festival, lending his creative weight to a programme designed to champion the next generation of filmmakers.
The BAFTA-winning, Golden Globe and SAG-nominated star is expanding his role with Redbreast Irish Whiskey’s Redbreast Unhidden platform, returning to SXSW not only as a brand ambassador but as Executive Producer for the next project from the 2026 Redbreast Unhidden Award winner. The initiative, now in its second year, was created to spotlight hidden cinematic talent and support emerging storytellers whose work might otherwise go unnoticed.
For Scott, whose recent performances have cemented him as one of Ireland’s most celebrated screen actors, the move reflects a long-standing passion for discovering original voices in film.
“Short films are where so many bold, original ideas begin, and are often where emerging filmmakers find their voice,” Scott said. “It’s a privilege to be part of Redbreast Unhidden and to help bring those stories to light.”
The Redbreast Unhidden Award recognises standout short films submitted to the festival and offers one filmmaker tangible backing for their next project. In addition to a project grant, the winner will receive the rare opportunity to have their next film executive produced by Scott, whose involvement is expected to help elevate the project within the industry and bring it to global audiences.
Scott has also personally curated this year’s shortlist of finalists, selecting five films he believes reflect the same qualities the initiative celebrates: authenticity, depth and uncompromising craftsmanship. The films, Can I Put You On Hold by James Cutler, Imago by Ariel Zengotita, Visitors by Minnie Schedeen, We Were Here by Pranav Bhasin and Winter Ceremony by Sidi Wang, span intimate family dramas, dark comedies and genre-blending narratives.
Together, they explore themes of identity, belonging, migration and generational divides, highlighting a new wave of filmmakers unafraid to challenge perspective and convention.
“SXSW Film & TV Festival has always been about discovery and championing new voices that push the art of filmmaking forward,” said Francis Román. “With the return of Redbreast Unhidden, we’re proud to continue spotlighting exceptional short filmmakers whose work reflects bold storytelling. Seeing this initiative grow in its second year, and with Andrew Scott stepping into an executive producer role, reinforces our shared commitment to giving emerging storytellers meaningful support and a global platform at a pivotal moment in their careers.”
The award builds on the success of last year’s inaugural honour at the festival, which recognised filmmaker Andy Reid for Brief Somebodies. The 2026 Redbreast Unhidden Award winner will be unveiled at the SXSW Film & TV Awards on 18 March.
Alongside the award, Redbreast will host a series of experiences across the festival, including the Unhidden Showcase featuring Scott’s personal selection of cinematic discoveries and an Unhidden Speakeasy where festivalgoers can enjoy whiskey cocktails inspired by the art of storytelling.
To find out more about SXSW, visit sxsw.com.
To find out more about Redbreast Irish Whiskey, visit redbreastwhiskey.com.
