At the prestigious Academy Awards ceremony held on Sunday, 15 March 2026, Hollywood's biggest night took an unexpected turn for actor Timothée Chalamet and his co-star Kevin O'Leary. Chalamet, who starred in the new Josh Safdie film Marty Supreme, was nominated for the Best Actor Oscar but lost out to Michael B Jordan, a result that surprised many in the industry.
A Costly Wager on Oscar Night
Kevin O'Leary, making his acting debut in Marty Supreme, placed a last-minute bet of $1,000 on Chalamet winning the award. Despite bookmakers favouring Michael B Jordan for the victory, O'Leary expressed strong confidence in Chalamet's chances, believing his performance would secure the Oscar. However, the bet backfired when Jordan was announced as the winner, leaving O'Leary out of pocket.
Controversy Shadows Chalamet's Campaign
Chalamet's Oscar campaign reportedly faced setbacks after he made controversial remarks about opera and ballet in the lead-up to the ceremony. These comments drew sharp criticism from various cultural figures, who accused him of disrespecting traditional art forms. The controversy gained significant attention and was even referenced by host Conan O'Brien during his opening monologue at the Oscars. Chalamet was seen laughing at the joke, but the incident may have impacted his chances with voters.
The loss marks a notable moment in Chalamet's career, as he continues to rise in Hollywood with roles in high-profile projects like Marty Supreme. Meanwhile, O'Leary's betting mishap highlights the unpredictable nature of awards season, where even confident predictions can fall short. The event underscores how external factors, such as public statements, can influence Oscar outcomes, adding another layer of drama to the annual celebration of film excellence.
