The 2026 Oscar nominations stirred widespread reaction as several anticipated contenders were unexpectedly left off the shortlist, highlighting both surprising omissions and continued unpredictability in this year’s Academy Awards race. With the full nominations announced ahead of the March 15 ceremony, fans and industry insiders alike have taken note of who made the cut — and who didn’t.

Among the most talked‑about snubs were Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, both of whom were left out of nominations for Wicked: For Good despite strong awards‑season momentum, shocking many given their previous accolades.

Another major surprise was Paul Mescal, who was expected by many to land a nomination for his role in Hamnet but ultimately did not receive a nod, leaving awards observers debating his omission.

In addition, Jacob Elordi, known for his standout work in Frankenstein, was also left off this year’s nominations list — another upset for a performance that critics had discussed throughout the season. Likewise, acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro did not earn a Best Director nomination for Frankenstein, drawing commentary about the Academy’s choices among filmmakers.

Despite these omissions, the nominations still showcased a wide range of films and performances, with some unexpected recognitions and new categories shaking up the lineup. The Academy’s choices reflect both the competitiveness and subjectivity of awards season as Hollywood prepares for the 98th Oscars this March.