They have arrived in a blaze of promise and cinematic possibility. Ten of Europe’s most exciting emerging performers are stepping into the global spotlight as part of European Film Promotion’s prestigious Shooting Stars programme during the 76th edition of the Berlin International Film Festival.
Organised by European Film Promotion, the initiative gathers a hand-picked group of actors and actresses for an intensive four-day showcase designed to propel international careers. Across networking sessions, industry meetings and press engagements, the selected talents are introduced to influential decision-makers while presenting their artistry to the world’s media.
Key moments of the programme include the International Press Day on 15 February and a public showcase at the Berlinale Hub on 16 February, hosted by presenter Aminata Belli. The celebrations continue with a red-carpet welcome and official greeting at the iconic Berlinale Palast, culminating in the presentation of the Shooting Stars Awards during the EFP Gala Dinner.
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For nearly three decades, EUROPEAN SHOOTING STARS has served as a powerful launchpad for performers on the cusp of international recognition. Alumni of the programme read like a who’s who of contemporary European cinema, including acclaimed talents such as Carey Mulligan, Riz Ahmed, Bill Skarsgård and Academy Award winner Alicia Vikander—artists who transformed early promise into global achievement.
The European Shooting Stars 2026
This year’s constellation of talent reflects the diversity and creative energy of European screen acting:
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Fatlume Bunjaku (Albania)
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Lucas Englander (Austria)
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Violet Braeckman (Belgium)
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Salif Cissé (France)
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Enno Trebs (Germany)
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Danielle Galligan (Ireland)
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Tecla Insolia (Italy)
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Joes Brauers (The Netherlands)
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Sofia Tjelta Sydness (Norway)
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Cleo Diára (Portugal)
Each performer arrives in Berlin carrying the quiet electricity of potential, ready to translate national acclaim into international momentum. In the grand theatre of the Berlinale, where discovery and destiny often share the same spotlight, these ten rising stars now stand poised for their next act.
