Oscar Nominations 2026: Eight Surprises That Shook the Industry

Thu Jan 29 2026 21:38:38 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

This year's Oscar nominations brought unexpected twists and shocking omissions, from Elle Fanning's surprise nod to the unprecedented snubs of hot favorites like Paul Mescal. Dive into the details of the most surprising moments and nominations of the 2026 Academy Awards.

The 2026 Oscar nominations delivered surprises and snubs that captivated industry pundits. Notable moments included Elle Fanning's nomination for 'Sentimental Value', unexpected omissions in key categories, and strong performances from films like 'Sinners' and 'Marty Supreme'. This year's nominations reflect a blend of artistic achievements amidst traditional favorites.

The 2026 Academy Awards nominations were unveiled, showcasing an array of surprises and snubs that took both fans and critics by storm. The announcement kicked off with a memorable mention of Elle Fanning in the best supporting actress category for her performance in the heartwarming film 'Sentimental Value', an unexpected start that set the tone for the nominations.

Here are eight key takeaways from this year’s nominations:

1. Some hot favorites missed out

Despite earlier high expectations, several prominent nominees failed to receive their due recognition. Paul Mescal's omission for 'Hamnet' shocked fans, though co-star Jessie Buckley remained a frontrunner. Similarly, Chase Infiniti’s absence in the best actress category was noted, given her stellar reviews.

2. F1 is a comfort-food movie

Brad Pitt’s racing drama 'F1' surprisingly secured a nomination for best picture, illustrating the Academy's lingering appreciation for feel-good, traditional films. Despite lacking nominations in acting categories, its technical achievements were praised.

3. Sinners were the big winners

'Sinners' shattered nomination records with 16 nods, well ahead of past record holders. The film’s blend of horror and music resonated with voters, showcasing the Academy's support for unique artistic expressions.

4. Wicked did not bewitch the Academy

The sequel 'Wicked: For Good' failed to earn a single nomination, a stark contrast to the first film’s success. Critics attributed this to lesser acclaim and anticipated recognition that ultimately didn’t materialize.

5. The Brits showed up

In a year short on British nominees, Wunmi Mosaku and Delroy Lindo clinched nominations for their performances in 'Sinners', underscoring the film's overall acclaim.

6. Several actresses carried their films to a nomination

The nominations saw actresses like Rose Byrne, Kate Hudson, and Amy Madigan representing their films solo, emphasizing their significant contributions to their respective narratives.

7. New category is a mixed bag

The newly introduced casting category featured films like 'Marty Supreme' and 'One Battle After Another', yet notable omissions, such as 'Sentimental Value', raised eyebrows.

8. Timothée is even closer to greatness

Timothée Chalamet solidified his status as a frontrunner for best actor for 'Marty Supreme', edging closer to joining Hollywood's elite after multiple nominations.

This year's nominations not only recognize standout performances but also illuminate the Academy's evolving perspective on storytelling in cinema.