Oscars latest: One Battle After Another takes top prize as Jessie Buckley and Michael B Jordan win gongs
Oscars 2026: A Night of Triumphs and Surprises
Hollywood’s most anticipated evening unfolded with unexpected momentum, as the ceremony’s final moments revealed a surprising surge of accolades. One Battle After Another emerged as the standout victor, securing six prestigious awards, including best picture and the director’s trophy for Paul Thomas Anderson. Meanwhile, Hamnet’s Jessie Buckley and Sinners’ Michael B Jordan claimed the leading acting honors, cementing their status as the evening’s most celebrated performers.
Main Winners
The Academy Awards 2026 saw a record-breaking performance by One Battle After Another, which dominated the stage with its haul of six titles. Among the highlights was the Best Director award, marking a significant milestone for Paul Thomas Anderson. Jessie Buckley’s portrayal in Hamnet earned her the Best Lead Actress honor, while Michael B Jordan’s role in Sinners secured him the Best Lead Actor prize. Both films were also recognized with multiple other accolades, underscoring their impact on the cinematic landscape.
Afterparty Highlights
Following the ceremony, the red carpet buzzed with renewed energy as stars gathered for the Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty. Kpop Demon Hunters’ cast reunited for a striking group photo, showcasing the film’s growing influence. The title, which tells the story of K-pop idols battling supernatural forces, had already made history by winning Best Original Song and Best Animated Feature. Its success continued to resonate globally, with South Korea celebrating its victory as a cultural breakthrough.
“For Korea and for Koreans everywhere,” said co-director Maggie Kang, a first-time Oscar nominee, after accepting the award. “And for those of you who look like me, I’m so sorry that it took us so long to see us in a movie like this. But it is here, and that means the next generations don’t have to go longing.”
Despite not claiming the top honors, other films and stars also shone. The Bridesmaids cast reconnected, and Baby Yoda made an unexpected cameo, adding to the ceremony’s memorable moments. Meanwhile, the afterparty featured standout fashion choices, including Rei Ami’s bold red ensemble and Chase Infiniti’s sleek black look. Rita Ora’s striking black headpiece drew equal attention, while many celebrities opted for fresh outfits after the main event.
Michael B Jordan, still in the limelight, shared a heartfelt moment with his Oscar statuette, offering a tender kiss for the cameras. His performance in Sinners, a blues-infused vampire drama, had already earned four awards, highlighting its critical acclaim. Even stars like Timothee Chalamet, who missed out on the top prize, remained in the spotlight, charming audiences with their presence at the afterparty.
Notable Moments
The ceremony was punctuated by surprising and heartfelt exchanges. Gwyneth Paltrow’s iconic dress, which had sparked discussions all week, was just one of many standout visuals. The afterparty continued the trend, with celebrities using the occasion to make bold fashion statements and engage in candid moments. Among the highlights was the presence of Brandi Carlile and her wife Catherine Carlile, who attended the event together.