The 98th Academy Awards nominations for Best Actor have been revealed, and fans are already buzzing about what promises to be a standout year in acting talent. The nominees for Best Actor in a Leading Role include some of Hollywood’s most familiar faces alongside rising international stars, reflecting a broad range of powerful performances.
Here’s who made the cut for Best Actor at Oscars 2026:
• Timothée Chalamet for Marty Supreme
• Leonardo DiCaprio for One Battle After Another
• Ethan Hawke for Blue Moon
• Michael B. Jordan for Sinners
• Wagner Moura for The Secret Agent
Right now, the narrative in the awards world puts Timothée Chalamet at the front of the pack. After a season of major precursor wins and consistent praise for his role in Marty Supreme, he’s widely considered the leading contender to take home the Best Actor Oscar this year.
#TimothéeChalamet gives a glimpse behind the scenes of #MartySupreme, sneak peeks you won’t want to miss. 😎#Celebs #Hollywood pic.twitter.com/e5EyHIs5Pc
— Filmfare (@filmfare) January 10, 2026
But Chalamet isn’t alone at the top. Leonardo DiCaprio, nominated for his role in One Battle After Another, remains firmly in the conversation. DiCaprio’s transformative performance and storied stature in awards history make him a strong challenger throughout the race, and many pundits see him as a close second to Chalamet.
Meanwhile, Wagner Moura’s nomination for The Secret Agent signals impressive global recognition, and he brings a compelling international presence to the category. Michael B. Jordan and Ethan Hawke also round out the slate with performances that fans and critics alike have praised.
This year’s Best Actor field is shaping up as one of the most intriguing in recent memory, blending blockbuster favorites, dramatic heavyweights, and bold international talent. With the Oscars ceremony set for March 15, 2026, the countdown to see who takes home the golden statue is officially on.