Jessie Buckley Shares Pre-Oscars Nerves Ahead of 2026 Ceremony
Jessie Buckley has candidly revealed her nerves and excitement in the lead-up to the 2026 Oscars ceremony this Sunday night, where she is widely tipped for further awards success. The 36-year-old actress, celebrated for her role in Hamnet, has already dominated this year's awards season, securing the Best Actress accolade at the BAFTAs, Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Critics' Choice Awards.
Reflections on an 'Insane' Oscars Experience
In a recent interview, Buckley reflected on what she described as an 'insane' experience at the Oscars nominee luncheon, where she posed for a 'class photo' alongside fellow stars like Timothée Chalamet and Emma Stone. The down-to-earth mother-of-one admitted that winning an Oscar feels 'beyond her wildest expectations,' humorously noting that 'she'll be 80 before she takes it all in.'
Speaking ahead of her glamorous appearance at the Dolby Theatre, Buckley said: 'It's kind of hard to take in. I think probably when I'm 80, I'll have a really good answer. Going to the Oscar nominee luncheon and, being completely honest, sometimes you're getting in the car and you're like, "Oh god, I'm tired. And I have a six-month-old, and I should be at home changing her nappy. What am I doing? And I don't know anybody there, I'm scared."'
A Moment of Gratitude Amidst Star-Studded Company
Recalling the 'insane and cute' class photograph with fellow nominees and high-profile guests, Buckley told The Mirror: 'I was watching everybody get up and you've got, like Guillermo del Toro and Rose Byrne, Timothée Chalamet, Emma Stone and I'm like, "God, I cannot take this for granted, this moment." It's something I never, ever expected. I thought I would be lucky enough to peep behind the curtain and be in a play. This is beyond my wildest expectations.'
Oscars Nomination and Competitive Field
It was announced in January that Buckley has earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her portrayal of Agatha Shakespeare in Hamnet. She will attend the March 15 ceremony in Los Angeles as a nominee, marking her second Oscar nod following her recognition for The Lost Daughter four years ago.
The Best Actress category is set to be highly competitive, with Buckley facing off against Rose Byrne for If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, Kate Hudson for Song Sung Blue, Renate Reinsve for Sentimental Value, and Emma Stone for Bugonia. Buckley expressed her pride and honour at the nomination, telling The Hollywood Reporter: 'My baby's screaming in the background, but I am thrilled. I'm so proud and honoured to be beside all those extraordinary women and to be there with Hamnet. I'm delighted.'
Hamnet's Critical Acclaim and Awards Prospects
Hamnet, a film exploring the death of William Shakespeare and Agnes Shakespeare's son Hamnet, has garnered widespread critical acclaim since its release in January. The movie has already picked up top awards during the season and is poised to be a major contender at the Oscars, with a total of eight nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for Chloe Zhao. Notably, Paul Mescal was a surprise snub in the Best Supporting Actor category.
Particular praise has been directed at Buckley for her performance as the central figure Agnes Shakespeare, depicting her journey through the life and death of her son. The film delves into how this profound loss shapes her family and, indirectly, influences the creation of one of Shakespeare's greatest works, Hamlet. As the Oscars approach, Buckley's heartfelt reflections and impressive track record highlight her as a standout in this year's awards landscape.
