Golden Globes 2026: The 7 Most Shocking Snubs, Ranked

Every awards season brings its share of surprises, but this year’s Golden Globes left many fans and critics scratching their heads. While some winners were expected, a handful of standout projects and performances were left out in the cold, despite months of buzz and critical acclaim. The 2025 and early 2026 entertainment landscape was packed with unforgettable movies, series, and actors, making these snubs even harder to swallow.

TV and Acting Standouts Overlooked

Britt Lower’s work in Severance was a masterclass in emotional depth and subtlety. After taking home an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, many assumed she’d be a lock for the Golden Globe. Instead, Rhea Seehorn from Pluribus captured the spotlight, with voters seemingly favoring a more mainstream pick. Lower’s nuanced performance, however, continues to resonate with viewers on Apple TV+.

Benicio del Toro was another favorite heading into awards night. His role in One Battle After Another was widely discussed as Oscar- worthy, and his chemistry with Leonardo DiCaprio ’s character was a highlight. Yet, the trophy went to Stellan Skarsgård for Sentimental Value, leaving del Toro’s fans disappointed. One Battle After Another remains available on HBO Max for those who missed his standout turn.

Animated and International Films Miss Out

In the animated category, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle was a visual and emotional triumph, delivering breathtaking action and heartfelt moments for longtime fans. Despite its artistry, it was passed over in favor of KPop Demon Hunters, which drew a broader audience on Netflix. The decision may have come down to accessibility, as Demon Slayer required viewers to be familiar with previous seasons.

On the international front, No Other Choice, a South Korean drama with Park Chan-wook’s signature touch, was widely expected to win Best Non-English Film. Instead, Brazil’s The Secret Agent took the prize, riding a wave of global acclaim. No Other Choice’s exploration of capitalism and its haunting conclusion left a lasting impression, even if it didn’t take home the trophy.

Major Film Performances and Best Picture Drama

Joel Edgerton’s performance in Train Dreams was hailed as one of the year’s most powerful, with many predicting a sweep of major acting awards. Wagner Moura ultimately won for The Secret Agent, but Edgerton’s work on Netflix remains a must-see for drama fans.

Leonardo DiCaprio’s comedic turn in One Battle After Another had audiences and critics raving. He brought a unique energy to the role, balancing chaos and humor with ease. However, Timothée Chalamet’s last-minute entry with Marty Supreme stole the show, likely benefiting from perfect timing as the film dropped just before voting.

Best Picture Drama: A Surprising Omission

Sentimental Value entered the night with eight nominations and was widely considered a frontrunner for Best Picture – Drama. Its intimate exploration of family dynamics and psychological depth set it apart from the eventual winner, Hamnet . Despite missing out on the top honor, Sentimental Value’s emotional storytelling and complex characters have left a mark on audiences, and it’s available to rent or buy on Amazon.

These unexpected omissions serve as a reminder that awards often hinge on timing, visibility, and momentum as much as on merit. While some of these films and performances may have been overlooked by the Golden Globes, their cultural impact is sure to endure.