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 Oscars were dominated by One Battle After Another, which claimed six awards, including best picture and director honors for Paul Thomas Anderson. Jessie Buckley and Michael B Jordan emerged as the leading actors, with Buckley securing best lead actress for her role in Hamnet and Jordan winning best lead actor for his performance in Sinners.
As the ceremony concluded, the focus shifted to the red carpet at the Vanity Fair afterparty, where stars like Chase Infiniti and Rita Ora made bold fashion statements. Infiniti arrived in a sleek black ensemble, while Ora dazzled in a striking black headpiece. Meanwhile, Michael B Jordan kissed his Oscar statuette for the cameras, celebrating his triumph in Sinners, a film that earned four awards this year.
Stars Reunite and Surprises Emerge
The evening was marked by unexpected moments, such as the return of Bridesmaids cast members and a cameo from Baby Yoda. The afterparty also saw the cast of Kpop Demon Hunters gather, showcasing the film’s growing popularity. This sci-fi thriller, centered on K-pop stars battling supernatural forces, won best original song and animated feature at the ceremony.
“For Korea and for Koreans everywhere,” said Maggie Kang, a first-time Oscar nominee and co-director of Kpop Demon Hunters, as she accepted the award. “And for those of you who look like me, I’m so sorry that it took us so long to see us in a movie like this. But it is here, and that means the next generations don’t have to go longing.”
Despite not claiming an Oscar, Timothee Chalamet shared the spotlight with girlfriend Kylie Jenner at the afterparty. Similarly, Brandi Carlile and her spouse Catherine Carlile attended the event together, adding to the evening’s camaraderie.
Kpop Demon Hunters’ Triumph and Future
The success of Kpop Demon Hunters at the Academy Awards has sparked celebration in South Korea, with one publication calling it a “miracle” that highlights Seoul’s increasing cultural reach. The film’s victory follows a string of awards, including two Golden Globes and a Grammy, marking the first K-pop song to achieve such recognition.
News of a sequel has already been confirmed by Netflix, ensuring the franchise’s story continues. Jessie Buckley, the best actress winner, also made a notable appearance at the Vanity Fair afterparty, maintaining her presence in the spotlight.
