The Golden Globes announced nominations for over 40 films on Monday, yet even with such a broad field, notable omissions were impossible to ignore. This is the reality of awards season: as the competition tightens, exceptional performances and remarkable films sometimes get left behind.
The Globes’ history of quirks — often favoring A-list stars — continues this year. While nothing quite matches the notorious “The Tourist” incident, some choices still raise eyebrows. Here are the major snubs and surprises from this year’s nominations.
🔹 Snub: Danielle Deadwyler
Despite her acclaimed performance in Malcolm Washington’s The Piano Lesson, Danielle Deadwyler once again found herself overlooked. After being snubbed for Till in previous seasons, hopes for recognition remain with the upcoming Oscar nominations.
🔹 Surprise: All We Imagine as Light
The Globes got it right with Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine as Light. This small-distributor Indian film earned nominations in the international and directing categories — a rare achievement, especially given India’s controversial decision to submit a different film for the Oscars.
🔹 Snub: Saoirse Ronan
A four-time nominee and past winner, Saoirse Ronan surprisingly missed out this year. Her standout performances in The Outrun and Blitz were both left unrecognized.
🔹 Surprise: Sebastian Stan
Sebastian Stan landed two nominations for The Apprentice and A Different Man. However, his co-star Adam Pearson, who delivered a standout performance, missed out.
🔹 Snub: Marianne Jean-Baptiste
Marianne Jean-Baptiste’s exceptional role in Hard Truths was ignored despite receiving accolades from critics’ groups. There’s still hope other award bodies will acknowledge her work.
🔹 Snub: Directors Galore
Several noteworthy directors were snubbed, including RaMell Ross (Nickel Boys), Denis Villeneuve (Dune: Part Two), and Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain). With only six spots available, tough choices were inevitable.
🔹 Snub: Sing Sing
While Colman Domingo received a nomination, Sing Sing deserved more recognition, particularly for Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin’s powerful supporting performance.
🔹 Snub: June Squibb
June Squibb’s leading role in Thelma — a refreshing comedic performance — missed out in the musical/comedy category. A missed chance for well-deserved recognition.
🔹 Surprise: Pamela Anderson
Pamela Anderson’s nomination for The Last Showgirl was a delightful surprise, marking a high point in her career resurgence.
🔹 Snub: Meryl Streep
Despite her track record of 34 Golden Globe nominations, Meryl Streep was snubbed for her role in Only Murders in the Building.
🔹 Snub: Ryan Reynolds
Ryan Reynolds seemed like a sure bet for Deadpool & Wolverine, but the Globes passed on him, perhaps favoring Glen Powell’s rising star power this year.