Oscar Predictions 2026

Early Oscar Predictions 2026: The Frontrunners in the Major Categories

Best Picture

The race for the top prize is highly competitive, with a mix of auteur-driven dramas, big-budget epics, and powerful character studies leading the charge. 

Frontrunners:

• One Battle After Another

  (Warner Bros.)

• Hamnet

  (Focus Features)

• Sinners

  (Warner Bros.)

• Sentimental Value

  (Neon)

• Marty Supreme

  (A24)

• Frankenstein

  (Netflix)

• Wicked: For Good

  (Universal)

Best Director

Paul Thomas Anderson and Chloé Zhao appear to be strong favorites for their critically acclaimed work. 

Frontrunners:

• Paul Thomas Anderson One Battle After Another

• Chloé Zhao Hamnet

• Ryan Coogler Sinners

• Joachim Trier Sentimental Value

• Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein

Best Actor

This category is stacked with A-list talent and transformative performances. 

Frontrunners:

• Leonardo DiCaprio -One Battle After Another

• Timothée Chalamet Marty Supreme

• Wagner Moura The Secret Agent

• Michael B. Jordan Sinners

• George Clooney Jay Kelly

  Best Actress

  The Best Actress race features a mix of established stars and critical darlings. 

  Frontrunners:

  • Jessie Buckley Hamnet

  • Renate Reinsve Sentimental Value

  • Cynthia Erivo Wicked: For Good

  • Emma Stone Bugonia

     

  Best Supporting Actor

  Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, and Paul Mescal are considered major contenders in a strong field. 

  Frontrunners:

  • Sean Penn One Battle After Another

  • Stellan Skarsgård Sentimental Value

  • Paul Mescal Hamnet

  • Benicio Del Toro One Battle After Another

  • Adam Sandler Jay Kelly

    Best Supporting Actress

    Teyana Taylor is a notable frontrunner for her role One Battle After Another

    . 

    Frontrunners:

    • Ariana Grande Wicked: For Good

    • Amy Madigan Weapons

    • Teyana Taylor One Battle After Another

    • Elle Fanning Sentimental Value