In a triumphant return to the awards season, “Oppenheimer” claimed top honors at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards on Saturday. The event marked the first prize-giving gala for Hollywood stars since the conclusion of the industry’s longest-ever strike last year.
Christopher Nolan’s epic drama, delving into the life of the father of the atomic bomb, not only secured the prestigious prize for the best performance by a cast but also positioned itself as a strong contender for the coveted best picture at the Oscars. Cillian Murphy, portraying the titular scientist, clinched the award for best actor, while Robert Downey Jr., in the role of his bitter rival, won best supporting actor.
The celebratory atmosphere permeated the gala, with members of SAG-AFTRA, representing around 120,000 performers, including A-list stars, gathering for the first time post the strike’s resolution in November. Kenneth Branagh, speaking on behalf of the cast, expressed gratitude for being a part of the significant film and reflected on their solidarity during the strike, a moment he described as a “full circle.”
SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher commended the union members for their courage and conviction during the longest strike in its history, emphasizing the substantial gains achieved, including improved pay and protections against artificial intelligence (AI) from major studios like Disney and Netflix.
As “Oppenheimer” continued its award-winning streak, securing top honors at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards, Directors Guild of America Awards, and BAFTAs, the film’s victory at the SAG-AFTRA awards raises the question of whether it has solidified its position as the frontrunner in the Oscars’ best picture race.
Lily Gladstone’s win in the best actress category for “Killers” over Emma Stone’s performance in “Poor Things” adds intrigue to the Oscars race. The awards night also recognized supporting actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph and presented a lifetime achievement award to Barbra Streisand, drawing a standing ovation for the 81-year-old icon.
In the television category, “The Bear” and “Succession” claimed victories, with Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, Elizabeth Debicki, and Pedro Pascal earning accolades for their outstanding performances.
The 30th SAG Awards marked a historic moment as the first Tinseltown award show to stream globally on Netflix, attracting a broader audience without commercial breaks. The streaming giant’s foray into live events, including the SAG Awards, showcases its growing influence in the entertainment industry.
