Michael B. Jordan Wins Best Actor & ‘Sinners’ Triumphs at 2026 Oscars
The 98th Academy Awards concluded Sunday evening at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, with a night of celebration for the year’s most acclaimed films. Among the biggest winners was Sinners, which entered the ceremony with a leading 16 nominations and ultimately secured key wins including Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan and Best Original Screenplay for Ryan Coogler. The film’s success solidifies its place as a standout achievement of the year.
Jordan’s win marks a significant moment in his career, and a powerful recognition for his performance in Sinners. He thanked his family, collaborators, and peers during his acceptance speech, and as well acknowledged the studio leaders who championed the project, praising “the vision of Ryan Coogler, for betting on the culture, and betting on original ideas, and original artistry.” He further honored the legacy of Black actors who paved the way for him, naming Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington, and Will Smith as inspirations.
A Performance That Resonated
The evening’s energy was palpable even before the awards were announced, particularly during a present-stopping performance inspired by a pivotal scene from Sinners. Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq performed “I Lied to You,” the film’s Oscar-nominated song, alongside a diverse ensemble of musicians and dancers. The performance featured appearances by Misty Copeland, Eric Gales, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Jayme Lawson, Li Jun Li, Bobby Rush, Shaboozey, and Alice Smith, recreating the vibrant atmosphere of the juke joint depicted in the film. Notably, the performance included cast members Lawson, Li, and Jack O’Connell, echoing the film’s central scene. Michael B. Jordan himself visibly approved of the tribute, nodding and smiling during the performance, as reported by ABC7.
Beyond Jordan: A Night for Sinners
The accolades for Sinners didn’t stop with Jordan’s Best Actor win. Ryan Coogler took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, reflecting on the sacrifices inherent in filmmaking and expressing his love for his children during his acceptance speech. Ludwig Göransson also added to the film’s success with the award for Best Original Score. Autumn Durald Arkapaw made history by winning Best Cinematography, becoming the first woman to receive the award and the first woman of color to do so. During her speech, she acknowledged the women who supported her journey, asking all women in the audience to stand in recognition.
A Historic Win for Cinematography
Arkapaw’s win is particularly noteworthy, breaking a long-standing barrier in the category. Her achievement highlights a growing recognition of female talent behind the camera and signals a potential shift in representation within the industry. The moment was a powerful one, and a testament to her skill and artistry.
One Battle After Another Takes Best Picture
Although Sinners was a major force at the awards, Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another ultimately took home the award for Best Picture. The film also secured wins for Best Supporting Actor (Sean Penn) and Best Production Design. Notably, the film featured performances from ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood honorees Teyana Taylor, Chase Infiniti, and Regina Hall.
Full List of Winners
Here’s a complete rundown of the winners at the 98th Academy Awards:
Best Picture
One Battle After Another
Best Actor
Michael B. Jordan – Sinners
Best Actress
Jessie Buckley – Hamnet
Best Supporting Actor
Sean Penn – One Battle After Another
Best Supporting Actress
Amy Madigan – Weapons
Best Director
Paul Thomas Anderson – One Battle After Another
Best Original Screenplay
Sinners
Best Adapted Screenplay
One Battle After Another
Best Animated Feature Film
KPop Demon Hunters
Best International Feature Film
Sentimental Value – Norway
Best Casting
One Battle After Another
Best Cinematography
Sinners
Best Production Design
Frankenstein
Best Editing
One Battle After Another
Best Original Score
Sinners
Best Original Song
“Golden” – KPop Demon Hunters
Best Sound
F1
Best Visual Effects
Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Makeup and Hairstyling
Frankenstein
Best Costume Design
Frankenstein
Best Animated Short Film
The Girl Who Cried Pearls
Best Live-Action Short Film
The Singers & Two People Exchanging Saliva (Tie)
Best Documentary Feature Film
Mr. Nobody Against Putin
Best Documentary Short
All the Empty Rooms
What’s Next for the Sinners Team?
With the awards season largely concluded, the focus now shifts to future projects for the key players behind Sinners. Michael B. Jordan is expected to continue his work as both an actor and a producer, potentially exploring new projects that champion diverse voices and original storytelling. Ryan Coogler is likely to return to directing, building on the critical and commercial success of Sinners. The momentum from these wins will undoubtedly open doors for future collaborations and opportunities for the entire team.