The Biggest Oscar Nominations Snubs and Surprises in 2026

Every year when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences unveils its Oscar nominations, the film world collectively holds its breath. The 98th Academy Awards are no exception. The 2026 nominations, announced on January 22, sparked intense discussion, with astonishing inclusions, baffling omissions, and historic achievements that captivated audiences and critics alike. With Sinners breaking records and beloved performers left off the ballots, this year’s list reflects both the Academy’s evolving tastes and the unpredictable nature of awards season.

A Record-Breaking Year for “Sinners”

At the center of this Oscar storm is Sinners, a supernatural thriller that defied expectations and rewrote the record books. The film received an unprecedented 16 nominations, the most in Academy history, surpassing legendary contenders like Titanic and La La Land. Its recognition spans major categories — including Best Picture, Director, and acting nods — making it the defining title of the 2026 race.

This sweeping success not only highlights the film’s broad appeal but also reflects the Academy’s growing willingness to embrace genre and hybrid storytelling. Sinners’ nominations for acting and technical categories signal a crossover from popular blockbuster territory to critical acclaim, a rare journey in Oscar lore.

Surprise Inclusions That Shook the Field

Every year’s Oscar nominations have moments that defy prediction, and this year’s surprises were particularly striking.

Delroy Lindo’s Long-Overdue Nod

One of the most applauded surprises came with Delroy Lindo earning his first Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his work in Sinners. Lindo’s acclaimed performance — powerful, nuanced, and deeply moving — had drawn praise throughout awards season but wasn’t widely expected to land a nomination until the ballots were revealed. The recognition serves as a powerful acknowledgment of his enduring talent and storied career.

Kate Hudson’s Triumphant Return

Another unexpected joy was Kate Hudson’s Best Actress nomination for her role in Song Sung Blue. Returning to Oscar contention 25 years after her first nomination, Hudson’s inclusion thrilled many who viewed her performance as a heartfelt and layered portrayal deserving of major recognition.

Best Picture Shockers: “F1” and Others

The nomination of F1 for Best Picture stunned many pundits who never saw the high-octane racing drama as Oscar material. Yet its inclusion reflects the Academy’s broader consideration of popular cinema that resonates with audiences and critics in equal measure, underscoring the category’s openness to non-traditional contenders.

Snubs That Stirred Outrage and Debate

While surprises sparked celebration, the snubs ignited frustration among fans, critics, and industry insiders — especially when favored performances or films were left off the Oscars ballot altogether.

“Wicked: For Good” Shut Out

Perhaps the most high-profile snub was the total omission of Wicked: For Good. After its predecessor earned 10 nominations in 2025, the sequel’s complete absence was widely criticized. Both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, expected to be frontrunners in acting categories, saw their Oscar dreams dashed as the film failed to register in any category — a development that shocked audiences and beat writers alike.

Paul Mescal Misses Out

Another painful omission came with Paul Mescal, who had been among the season’s most talked-about actors for his role in Hamnet. Industry buzz had placed him in strong contention for a nomination, making his absence one of the year’s most discussed snubs.

Other Notable Snubs

Several other noteworthy performers and films were overlooked:

Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt failed to secure nominations for The Smashing Machine, despite strong reviews and early season attention.

George Clooney and Adam Sandler were shut out for Jay Kelly, an industry favorite that received no recognition.

The Indian film Homebound — India’s official Oscar entry — was also snubbed, drawing disappointment from international fans of the project.

Beyond the Headlines: Broader Trends and Takeaways

Beyond individual snubs and surprises lies a broader narrative about the Academy’s evolving identity.

Diversity Across Genre and International Cinema

This year’s nominations showcased a mix of narratives, styles, and cultural backgrounds. While blockbuster musicals and sequels struggled for recognition, dramatic pieces, international films, and genre hybrids found solid footing. This diversity signals a shift in Academy preferences, placing narrative strength and artistic ambition at the forefront.

Fans and Academy Voters Are Not Always Aligned

The disconnect between fan favorites — like Wicked: For Good — and Academy selections highlights an ongoing tension in awards culture. Box office success and popular acclaim do not always translate to Oscar nominations, reminding audiences that critical consensus and artistic evaluation often operate by a different set of criteria.

Expectations vs. Reality

Perhaps the most enduring lesson of the 2026 nominations is the reminder that Oscar predictions are just that: predictions. Even performances and films perceived as locks can be overlooked, while underdog entries can rise to prominence in unexpected ways.

Looking Ahead to the Ceremony

As anticipation builds toward the Oscars ceremony on March 15, 2026, hosted by Conan O’Brien, audiences will be watching not just who wins, but whether the surprises and snubs of the nomination stage foreshadow even more unpredictability on the big night.

Whether you’re celebrating record-breaking nominations or lamenting beloved films left out in the cold, the 2026 Oscars have already made their mark as one of the most talked-about nomination cycles in years.