Golden Globes 2026: Key Contenders in Film, TV, and Podcasts

The 2026 Golden Globes are set to showcase the best of 2025 across film, television, and podcasts, marking a significant moment with the inclusion of podcast categories. The ceremony will air live on Sunday at 20:00 ET on CBS and will also stream on Paramount+. Comedian Nikki Glaser returns as host for the second year, promising an entertaining evening for audiences.

Film Nominations Highlight Key Contenders

Leading the nominations this year is Paul Thomas Anderson‘s film “One Battle After Another,” which has secured nine nominations. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio as a revolutionary turned recluse, the film features a gripping storyline involving a father’s desperate quest to rescue his daughter from a white supremacist. Anderson himself is nominated for both Best Director and Best Screenplay, while the film competes for Best Picture along with acting nominations for DiCaprio, Chase Infiniti, and others.

Trailing closely is Joachim Trier‘s “Sentimental Value,” which has garnered eight nominations, including Best Director and Best Picture – Drama. The film tells the poignant tale of an actress confronting her troubled relationship with her father, portrayed by Stellan Skarsgård. This Norwegian film is also in the running for Best Non-English Language Film, further highlighting its global appeal.

Ryan Coogler’s horror film “Sinners,” featuring Michael B. Jordan as a bootlegger battling racist vampires, follows with seven nominations. The film’s accolades include Best Picture and Best Actor, while Coogler is also recognized for his directorial and screenwriting efforts.

Television and Podcast Categories Shine

The third season of HBO’s acclaimed series “The White Lotus” is leading the television nominations with six nods, including Best Drama Series. The show features a strong ensemble cast, with Aimee Lou Wood and Carrie Coon among the nominees for Best Supporting Actress.

Netflix’s “Adolescence,” which explores the life of a young boy accused of murder after being radicalized online, has also made waves with five nominations, including Best Limited Series. Owen Cooper, a standout in the show, is favored for Best Supporting Actor following his historic Emmy win at just 15 years old.

For the first time, the Golden Globes will recognize podcasts, with nominees including Dax Shepard‘s “Armchair Expert” and “The Town” by Matt Belloni. This new category aims to attract a wider audience and elevate the status of podcasting within the entertainment industry.

As the Golden Globes approach, industry insiders and fans alike are closely watching the frontrunners. The awards, while often seen as a lighthearted celebration compared to the Oscars, can provide significant momentum for films and shows heading into the awards season. The full impact of these nominations will unfold as the ceremony highlights the artistic achievements of the past year.