Oscar Winner 2026: Who won Best Actor and Best Actress? The 98th Academy Awards delivered thrilling victories in both lead acting categories. Michael B. Jordan took home the Best Actor trophy for his dual role in Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” while Jessie Buckley became the first Irish actress to win Best Actress for her devastating performance in “Hamnet.” Their wins capped off an unforgettable night at the Dolby Theatre.
Oscar Winner 2026:Â Best Actor Michael B. Jordan’s Stunning Victory
Oscar Winner 2026: Who won Best Actor? Michael B. Jordan pulled off one of the night’s biggest surprises, defeating frontrunner Timothée Chalamet. Jordan’s performance in “Sinners” required him to play twin brothers, with one character transforming into a vampire. Critics praised his ability to make both roles distinct and emotionally resonant.

“I’m gonna keep stepping up,” Jordan said in his heartfelt acceptance speech, thanking his family for their unwavering support. The win marked Jordan’s first Oscar after two decades in the industry.
Oscar Winner 2026:Â Best Actress Jessie Buckley Makes History
 Jessie Buckley claimed the Best Actress Oscar for her role as Agnes in “Hamnet,” becoming the first Irish actress to win in this category. She swept every major precursor award, including the BAFTAs, Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice Awards, and SAG Awards.
Buckley’s performance anchors the film with quiet intensity, portraying a mother grappling with grief. Director Chloe Zhao called her “the giant concrete beam holding up this film.”
Oscar Winner 2026:Â The Road to Victory
Both winners followed very different paths to the podium. Jordan gained momentum after winning the Actor Award (formerly SAG), while Chalamet’s campaign stumbled following viral comments about ballet and opera that some voters found off-putting.

Buckley, by contrast, dominated throughout the entire awards season. Her victory came as no surprise to industry insiders who have watched her build an impressive body of work.
Other Major Winners
Oscar Winner 2026: Who won Best Actor and Best Actress? They were joined by other notable winners, including:
- Best Picture:Â “One Battle After Another”
- Best Director:Â Paul Thomas Anderson, “One Battle After Another”
- Best Supporting Actor:Â Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain”
- Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña, “Emilia Pérez”
- Best Original Song:Â “Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters”
The K-Pop Takeover
The ceremony also featured a historic K-pop moment when EJAE, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna performed their nominated song “Golden” live. The Dolby Theatre transformed into a concert venue as audience members waved lightsticks, with stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Emma Stone dancing along.
Oscar Winner 2026:Â Conan O’Brien’s Memorable Night

Host Conan O’Brien kept the audience laughing with jokes targeting Timothée Chalamet and creating an instant internet meme with Leonardo DiCaprio. When a graphic reading “TFW you didn’t agree to this” appeared beneath the actor, DiCaprio’s playful reaction went viral within minutes.
A Night of Firsts and History
Oscar Winner 2026: Who won Best Actor and Best Actress? Their names now join an exclusive club of Oscar winners. Jordan’s victory represents a milestone for actors who have grown up in the industry, while Buckley’s win opens doors for Irish performers worldwide.
Shop Best Actor-Winning Films on Amazon
Source Information
- Yahoo Entertainment: Oscars 2026 winners and viral moments
- The Korea Herald: ‘Golden’ hits the Oscar stage
- Daily Mail: Oscars 2026 most viral moments
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