5 major Oscar 2026 nominations snubs we didn't see coming: From ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ to Paul Mescal
The Oscar 2026 nominations had some expected names bagging multiple nominations. This time around, the surprise nods were pleasant, and the snubs were an absolute shocker. With the full list of nominations done, here are 5 major snubs that had fans buzzing
'Avatar: Fire and Ash'
James Cameron's third 'Avatar' movie may have been a commercial success, but the $1.3 billion moolah-making feature was not one of the nominees in the Best Picture category. While it earned two nods in technical categories — Best Visual Effects and Best Costume Design- the overall feeling is that the franchise is now experiencing that fatigue that comes with multiple installments.
Cynthia Arvo
While 'Wicked: For Good' was a commerical success, the voters didn't look at Cynthia Arvo's part in the film as one that was worthy of a nomination. She, along with Ariana Grande, was nominated last year for their performances in 'Wicked', but the duo were major snubs for the Best Lead Actress this time around.
Paul Mescal ('Hamnet')
One of the most riveting films saw Paul Mescal's Shakespeare steal hearts. While the film received eight nominations, the actor missed out on a potential supporting actor nod. In related news, nominee Jessica Buckley weighed in on the snub to THR. "I know what we created together is so special to us, and I hold that so dearly in my heart, and there’s no part of Agnes that exists without Paul. There’s no part of what I created or what we created in this story that exists without Paul and what he poured into this story. So what is recognized belongs to him as much as he being recognized in his own category would."
'Wicked: For Good'
It's worth noting that the first 'Wicked' bagged 10 nominations and won two eventually. Such were the massive expectations when the sequel was made that most believed 'For Good' would win big. But what followed was a film labeled a damp squib, and academy members didn't find enough to nominate the film for Best Picture.
Guillermo del Toro
'Frankenstein' was an impressive watch. And while the members acknowledged the good work by nominating it in nine categories, del Toro missed out on one against his name for Best Director. His projects have been regarded as some of the best over the years, but his snub for 'Frankenstein' is baffling.
The 2026 Oscars are scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood with Conan O'Brien returning as host. It will air live on ABC.
