20 Major Actors and Actresses Still Shockingly Snubbed by the Oscars (As of 2025)

The Academy Awards are the gold standard of cinematic achievement, celebrating the best in film each year. But even with all the glitz and glamour, some of the most talented actors and actresses have never held that iconic golden statue. These stars have delivered unforgettable performances, yet the Oscars have somehow passed them by, leaving fans like me stunned.

I’ve put together a list of 20 major actors and actresses who, despite their incredible work, remain shockingly snubbed by the Academy. From dramatic powerhouses to comedic geniuses, these performers have shaped Hollywood, and it’s time to shine a light on their overlooked brilliance.

Amy Adams

Amy Adams has dazzled audiences with her versatility, from heartfelt dramas to complex thrillers. Her roles in ‘Arrival’ (2016) and ‘The Fighter’ (2010) showcased her ability to convey deep emotion and strength, earning her critical praise.

Despite six nominations, including five for Best Supporting Actress and one for Best Actress, she’s still empty-handed. Her performance as a linguist decoding alien language in ‘Arrival’ was a standout, yet the Academy overlooked it. It’s baffling that such a consistent talent hasn’t won.

Glenn Close

Glenn Close is a legend, with a career spanning decades and roles that range from chilling villains to heartfelt leads. Her work in ‘Fatal Attraction’ (1987) and ‘The Wife’ (2018) proves her unmatched range.

With eight nominations—four for Best Supporting Actress and four for Best Actress—she holds the record for the most-nominated actress without a win. The Academy’s failure to reward her, especially for her nuanced role in ‘The Wife,’ feels like a glaring oversight.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson’s commanding presence has made him a Hollywood staple, from action blockbusters to intense dramas. His unforgettable performance as Jules in ‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994) redefined cool on screen.

Despite a Best Supporting Actor nomination for that role, he’s never won an Oscar. His ability to steal scenes in films like ‘Django Unchained’ (2012) makes the Academy’s snub surprising. Jackson’s impact deserves more than just applause.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett’s powerful performances have left a mark, especially her iconic portrayal of Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do With It’ (1993). She brought raw emotion and strength to the role.

Nominated twice, for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, she’s yet to win. Her commanding work in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022) was another missed opportunity. The Academy’s refusal to honor her feels like a disservice to her legacy.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is a force, delivering gut-wrenching performances in films like ‘The Woman King’ (2022). Her ability to embody strength and vulnerability makes her a standout in every role.

Despite four nominations and a Best Supporting Actress win for ‘Fences’ (2016), many argue her lead role in ‘The Woman King’ deserved recognition. The Academy’s decision to overlook her there stings, given her commanding presence.

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise has been a box-office king for decades, excelling in action and drama alike. His roles in ‘Jerry Maguire’ (1996) and ‘Born on the Fourth of July’ (1989) showed his depth beyond stunts.

With four nominations, including three for Best Actor and one for Best Supporting Actor, he’s still Oscar-less. His work in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (2022) was a cultural phenomenon, yet the Academy ignored him. It’s hard to understand why.

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams brings raw emotion to every role, from indie gems to major dramas. Her performances in ‘Blue Valentine’ (2010) and ‘Manchester by the Sea’ (2016) are heart-wrenching.

She’s earned five nominations, split between Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, but no wins. Her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in ‘My Week with Marilyn’ (2011) was a standout, yet the Academy passed her by again.

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan has been a standout since her youth, delivering powerful performances in films like ‘Lady Bird’ (2017). Her ability to carry complex characters is remarkable for her age.

With four nominations—three for Best Actress and one for Best Supporting Actress—she’s yet to win. Her work in ‘Little Women’ (2019) was universally praised, making the Academy’s snub feel especially unfair.

Mark Ruffalo

Mark Ruffalo’s warmth and intensity shine in roles across genres, from ‘Spotlight’ (2015) to ‘Poor Things’ (2023). He brings authenticity to every character he plays.

He’s been nominated four times for Best Supporting Actor but hasn’t won. His nuanced performance in ‘The Kids Are All Right’ (2010) was a highlight, yet the Academy overlooked him. Ruffalo’s talent deserves better.

Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe’s intense, transformative performances are unforgettable, from ‘Platoon’ (1986) to ‘At Eternity’s Gate’ (2018). His ability to inhabit unique characters is unmatched.

Despite four nominations, all for Best Supporting Actor, he’s still without an Oscar. His portrayal of Vincent van Gogh was a masterclass, but the Academy didn’t agree. Dafoe’s snub is a head-scratcher.

Sigourney Weaver

Sigourney Weaver redefined action heroines with her role as Ripley in ‘Aliens’ (1986). Her blend of strength and vulnerability made her a cinematic icon.

She’s earned three nominations—two for Best Actress and one for Best Supporting Actress—but no wins. Her groundbreaking work in ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ (1988) was ignored for the win, which feels like a missed opportunity.

Jake Gyllenhaal

Jake Gyllenhaal’s versatility shines in films like ‘Nightcrawler’ (2014), where he played a chillingly ambitious journalist. His range across dramas and thrillers is impressive.

He’s only been nominated once, for Best Supporting Actor in ‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005). His haunting performance in ‘Nightcrawler’ was shockingly overlooked. Gyllenhaal’s lack of recognition is a mystery.

Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe was a cultural icon, blending charm and depth in ‘Some Like It Hot’ (1959). Her comedic timing and screen presence were unmatched.

Shockingly, she never received an Oscar nomination. Her role in ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ (1953) showcased her star power, yet the Academy ignored her. Monroe’s snub is a historic injustice.

Steve Buscemi

Steve Buscemi’s quirky, intense performances in ‘Fargo’ (1996) and ‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992) make him a fan favorite. He brings depth to every role, big or small.

He’s never been nominated, which is astonishing given his impact. His chilling turn as Carl Showalter in ‘Fargo’ deserved at least a nod. Buscemi’s exclusion feels like a major oversight.

John Goodman

John Goodman’s commanding presence in ‘The Big Lebowski’ (1998) and ‘Barton Fink’ (1991) is unforgettable. His versatility spans comedy and drama with ease.

Despite his iconic roles, he’s never been nominated. His work in ‘Argo’ (2012) added weight to an Oscar-winning film, yet he was ignored. Goodman’s snub is hard to justify.

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac’s soulful performances in ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’ (2013) and ‘Dune’ (2021) showcase his incredible range. He carries films with quiet intensity.

He’s never received an Oscar nomination, which feels like a mistake. His role as a struggling folk singer was critically acclaimed, yet the Academy looked away. Isaac deserves more love.

Rita Hayworth

Rita Hayworth was a film noir legend, electrifying in ‘Gilda’ (1946). Her grace and charisma as a dancer and actress captivated audiences.

She never earned an Oscar nomination, likely due to the era’s biases. Her magnetic performance in ‘The Lady from Shanghai’ (1947) should’ve been recognized. Hayworth’s snub stings.

Alan Rickman

Alan Rickman’s emotional depth in ‘Truly, Madly, Deeply’ (1990) and commanding presence in ‘Harry Potter’ (2001-2011) made him a beloved star. His voice alone was iconic.

Shockingly, he was never nominated. His heartfelt role in ‘Truly, Madly, Deeply’ was a standout, yet the Academy ignored him. Rickman’s absence from the Oscar stage is a travesty.

Ewan McGregor

Ewan McGregor’s raw energy in ‘Trainspotting’ (1996) and emotional depth in ‘Moulin Rouge’ (2001) are iconic. He’s a chameleon across genres.

He’s never been nominated, which is hard to believe. His passionate performance as Christian in ‘Moulin Rouge’ deserved a nod. McGregor’s snub feels like a missed mark.

Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey’s dramatic turns in ‘The Truman Show’ (1998) and ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ (2004) proved he’s more than a comedian. His emotional range is stunning.

He’s never been nominated, despite delivering heart-rending performances. His role as Joel Barish was a career highlight, yet the Academy overlooked it. Carrey’s exclusion is a shock.

Which actor or actress’s Oscar snub surprises you most, or is there another star you think deserves a nod? Share your thoughts in the comments!