Hollywood’s brightest stars gathered in Beverly Hills for the annual Oscars nominees luncheon, marking a triumphant return after last year’s event was canceled due to devastating Los Angeles wildfires. The glitzy pre-show tradition brought together more than 200 nominees, offering a celebratory afternoon filled with champagne, embraces, and candid conversations.
A Star-Studded Affair
Timothée Chalamet, nominated for Best Actor for Marty Supreme, was spotted mingling with fellow contenders Michael B. Jordan and Ethan Hawke. Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, whose Frankenstein earned nine nominations including Best Picture, shared laughs with his tablemates, while Brazilian actor Wagner Moura enthusiastically greeted Stellan Skarsgard and Oliver Laxe.
Diversity Celebrated
Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor highlighted the global reach of this year’s ballot, noting votes came from 88 countries and regions. “The mission of the Academy is to amplify your art, movies, and your voices,” she said, underscoring the diversity represented across categories.
International Spotlight
Moura praised the recognition of Brazilian cinema, while director Kleber Mendonça Filho joked he felt “like a generator” amid the excitement. Skarsgard, nominated for Best Supporting Actor in the Norwegian film Sentimental Value, emphasized the growing impact of international films. His nomination places him alongside Hollywood heavyweights like Benicio del Toro (One Battle After Another) and Delroy Lindo (Sinners).
Personal Highlights
Benicio del Toro shared his thrill at watching fellow Puerto Rican Bad Bunny perform at the Super Bowl halftime show, calling it “beautiful.” Meanwhile, Guillermo del Toro expressed relief at not being in the Best Director race this year, saying it allowed him to focus on his team’s achievements.
A Relaxed Vibe
Australian actor Jacob Elordi, nominated for Best Supporting Actor, struck a laid-back tone during an impromptu photo shoot, telling reporters, “I’m chilling. It’s all good.” The luncheon’s return after last year’s cancellation was a reminder of Hollywood’s resilience. With nominees spanning continents and genres, the event set the stage for an Oscars ceremony that promises to be both diverse and dynamic.
