The battle for the Best Supporting Actress Oscar is currently one of the most unpredictable categories, causing much speculation among awards experts. With preliminary nominations from various prestigious bodies now unveiled, a clearer yet still complex picture is emerging of who might contend for the coveted golden statue. The nominations span a diverse group of actresses, ranging from seasoned veterans to burgeoning talents, reflecting a mix of critically acclaimed independent films and major studio productions. As the final nomination ballots draw near, the industry eagerly awaits the definitive list of contenders.
The Intense Battle for Oscar's Best Supporting Actress Begins
As of January 9, 2026, the race for the Oscar's Best Supporting Actress category is proving to be incredibly tight. Early indicators from various award bodies highlight a compelling lineup of talent. The Actor Awards nominations, an initial glimpse into industry preferences, recognized Odessa A'zion for “Marty Supreme,” Ariana Grande for “Wicked: For Good,” Amy Madigan for “Weapons,” Wunmi Mosaku for “Sinners,” and Teyana Taylor for “One Battle After Another.” This selection demonstrates a blend of fresh faces, established artists, and performances in films from significant production houses.
Subsequently, the BAFTA shortlist expanded the discussion by including international and acclaimed figures such as Brenda Blethyn in “Dragonfly,” Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas in “Sentimental Value,” Carey Mulligan in “The Ballad of Wallis Island,” Gwyneth Paltrow in “Marty Supreme,” and Emily Watson in “Hamnet.” This list also reinforced strong support for A'zion, Grande, Madigan, Mosaku, and Taylor.
A notable development occurred at the Critics Choice Awards, where Amy Madigan secured a victory for her role in “Weapons.” This win signals her strong presence in the race and underscores her potential to be a significant contender. Furthermore, “Weapons” earned a spot on the Producers Guild of America's list for best picture, suggesting broader industry support that could translate into additional nominations for Madigan, potentially for Best Picture or Original Screenplay, which would be crucial for her chances in the Best Supporting Actress category.
The upcoming Golden Globes, scheduled to announce winners this Sunday, are expected to further shape the landscape of this category. The nominees include Emily Blunt for “The Smashing Machine,” Elle Fanning for “Sentimental Value,” Ariana Grande for “Wicked: For Good,” Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas for “Sentimental Value,” Madigan for “Weapons,” and Taylor for “One Battle After Another.” Despite her absence from the SAG nominations, Lilleaas could emerge as a surprise favorite among international voters, emphasizing the widespread appeal of “Sentimental Value.”
Only three actresses have consistently appeared across all four major acting award bodies: the melodically gifted Grande, the versatile Madigan, and the unforgettable Taylor. The final list of nominees for the 98th Academy Awards will be unveiled on Thursday, January 22, with voting commencing on Monday, January 12, and concluding on Friday, January 16. The grand ceremony will take place on Sunday, March 15, at the Dolby Theatre, broadcast live globally on ABC.
The current Best Supporting Actress race showcases the incredible depth of talent within the film industry, highlighting both established stars and emerging talents. The diverse range of performances and films honored across different awards platforms emphasizes the subjective nature of artistic judgment, yet also points to a consensus forming around a few exceptional individuals. This dynamic competition not only celebrates individual achievements but also underscores the pivotal role supporting performances play in enriching cinematic narratives, reminding us of the enduring power of compelling acting. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most impactful performances come from those who support the main storyline, weaving essential threads into the overall tapestry of a film.