Oscars latest: One Battle After Another takes top prize as Jessie Buckley and Michael B Jordan win gongs
Oscars latest: One Battle After Another takes top prize as Jessie Buckley and Michael B Jordan win gongs
The 2026 Academy Awards saw One Battle After Another dominate the night, claiming six major honors. Among the standout performances, Jessie Buckley and Michael B Jordan emerged victorious in the leading acting categories, with Buckley’s role in Hamnet and Jordan’s portrayal in Sinners earning them the top accolades.
Key Winners and Moments
One Battle After Another was crowned the most anticipated evening’s victor, with awards spanning best picture and directing for Paul Thomas Anderson. The film’s success marked a significant moment in the industry, highlighting its impact across multiple categories.
Behind the Scenes at the Afterparty
While the ceremony itself was the main event, the post-show festivities offered equally compelling stories. Katie Spencer, an arts and entertainment correspondent, chronicled the red carpet energy in Los Angeles, capturing the camaraderie and excitement among attendees.
At the Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty, cast members of Kpop Demon Hunters reunited, showcasing their camaraderie. The film, which follows K-pop stars battling supernatural forces, secured two awards: best original song and animated feature. Notable figures like voice actors Ji-young Yoo and Ken Jeong, along with vocalists Arden Cho and Rei Ami, made appearances, further amplifying the celebration.
Stars also made bold fashion choices, with Rei Ami from Kpop Demon Hunters dazzling in a striking red ensemble. Chase Infiniti, a cast member of One Battle After Another, opted for a sleek black look, while Rita Ora made an impression with a dramatic black headpiece. Many attendees used the afterparty as a chance to refresh their style after the ceremony.
Unexpected Twists and Notable Appearances
The night was filled with surprises, from the unexpected return of Bridesmaids cast members to the whimsical presence of Baby Yoda. Michael B Jordan, having won best lead actor for his role in Sinners, shared a heartfelt moment by kissing his Oscar statuette on the red carpet.
Though not in the spotlight, Timothee Chalamet, star of Marty Supreme, brought a touch of charm by posing with his partner Kylie Jenner at the afterparty. Meanwhile, Brandi Carlile and her spouse Catherine Carlile made a stylish appearance, reinforcing the theme of collaboration and celebration.
Kpop Demon Hunters’ Triumph and Future Prospects
Despite its Oscar wins, Kpop Demon Hunters continued to make waves. The Netflix hit, which has already claimed two Golden Globes and two Critics’ Choice awards, recently took home a Grammy—a historic milestone for K-pop music. Its success has been celebrated in South Korea, with media calling it a “miracle” that underscores the country’s growing cultural presence.
“For Korea and for Koreans everywhere,” said co-director Maggie Kang, a first-time Oscar nominee, in her acceptance speech. “And for those of you who look like me, I’m so sorry it took us so long to see ourselves in a film like this. But it’s here, and that means the next generations don’t have to go longing.”
The film’s momentum shows no signs of slowing, as Netflix has confirmed plans for a sequel. Jessie Buckley, meanwhile, made a graceful return to the red carpet, embodying the same poise that earned her the best actress title. Her presence at the afterparty underscored the enduring allure of the night’s most celebrated performances.
