The annual Oscars ceremony is a celebration of the film industry’s most outstanding achievements, but it’s also a reminder that even the most talented actors can be overlooked. This year, a group of seven A-listers gathered for the Oscar season Actors Roundtable, all of whom delivered career-best performances in the 2025 film, yet none of them have ever received an Oscar nomination. Examining their snubs reveals a larger issue about Hollywood’s bias and the Academy’s voting patterns.
The Diverse Backgrounds of the Snubbed
The seven actors who gathered for the roundtable are a diverse bunch, hailing from different parts of the world, including America, Australia, and Brazil. Their ages range from 28 to 74, with the youngest being Jacob Elordi, known for his roles in Euphoria and The Kissing Booth, and the oldest being Mark Hamill, a veteran actor famous for his iconic role as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars. The group’s varied backgrounds and ages highlight the film industry’s growing diversity.
However, it’s striking that despite their talent and dedication, none of them have been recognized by the Academy. Their paths to stardom are equally diverse, with some rising to fame through TV shows like The Wire, Narcos, and Saturday Night Live, while others made their mark in the world of movies or even professional wrestling. This diversity is a strength, but it also underscores the Academy’s tendency to favor a more traditional or mainstream type of actor.
A Lack of Representation in the Academy’s Votes
One of the most striking aspects of the seven actors’ snubs is the lack of representation in the Academy’s voting patterns. Despite their career-best performances in the 2025 film, none of them received an Oscar nomination. This raises questions about the Academy’s voting process and whether it truly represents the diversity of the film industry.
The fact that these actors, who have all made significant contributions to their respective fields, are being overlooked suggests that the Academy’s voters may be out of touch with the changing landscape of Hollywood. The issue of representation is not just limited to the actors themselves, but also the types of films and performances that are being recognized.
The Impact of Snubs on Actors’ Careers
The impact of being snubbed by the Academy can be significant, both personally and professionally. For established actors like Mark Hamill, being overlooked may not have a significant impact on their careers. However, for others, a snub can be a setback, potentially affecting their future projects and opportunities.
The Impact of Typecasting and Stereotyping
The snubbing of these seven A-listers also highlights the issue of typecasting and stereotyping in Hollywood. Despite their versatility and range, many of these actors have been pigeonholed into specific roles or genres. For instance, Jacob Elordi, known for his charming and youthful persona, has often been cast in romantic comedies and teen dramas. Similarly, Mark Hamill, iconic for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, has struggled to break free from his association with the Star Wars franchise.
| Actor | Commonly Associated Roles/Genres |
|---|---|
| Jacob Elordi | Romantic Comedies, Teen Dramas |
| Mark Hamill | Science Fiction, specifically Star Wars |
| Simu Liu | Comedies, specifically related to Asian-American experiences |
The Intersection of Ageism and Sexism
Another critical aspect of the Oscar snubs is the intersection of ageism and sexism. Laura Linney, a veteran actress known for her incredible performances, has been overlooked by the Academy despite her impressive body of work. Her experience is not unique; many talented actresses over 50 face significant challenges in getting recognition for their roles. According to a study by the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, women over 45 make up only 2.5% of all leading actors in the top 100 films of 2020.
Ageism affects actors of all genders, but it disproportionately impacts women. The lack of roles and recognition for older actresses is a significant issue that needs to be addressed. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has taken steps to increase diversity, but more needs to be done to ensure that actors of all ages and backgrounds have equal opportunities.
A Call for Change
The snubbing of these seven A-listers is a wake-up call for the film industry. It’s a reminder that the Academy’s voting patterns often favor a specific type of actor, and that there’s a need for more diversity and inclusivity. To address this issue, the industry must actively work to break down barriers and challenge biases. This can be achieved by:
Providing more opportunities for actors from diverse backgrounds
Encouraging typecasting and promoting versatility
- Addressing ageism and sexism in the industry
By taking these steps, the industry can work towards a more inclusive and equitable environment, where actors are judged on their talent and dedication, rather than their background or demographics.