‘Succession’ Star Turns Heads 8 Years After Show’s Debut
After a ten-year pause, Tropfest returned to Sydney’s Centennial Park on Sunday, February 22, bringing a huge outdoor cinema experience for fans and filmmakers alike. Among the Australian talent present, Sarah Snook stood out, showing that no matter how global her career has become, she still values her roots in the local film scene.
Snook arrived at the festival in a stylish blazer and pants set, paired with a delicate pearl necklace from Paspaley. Her outfit reflected a balance of casual elegance and professionalism.
Speaking to reporters as she walked the black carpet, she shared her excitement for Tropfest and the opportunities it offers emerging filmmakers. She said, “If you are industrious and ingenious, you can create a film that could be in Tropfest,” highlighting how accessible filmmaking has become today.
🎥 | Sarah Snook shares that if Shiv had to recast the Roy family, she’d want Olivia Colman as the mom, and then Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan as sisters pic.twitter.com/ak7qvEZ42F
— best of sarah snook (@bestofsnook) February 23, 2026
The actress was part of a star-studded jury that included Margot Robbie as president, Taron Egerton, Danny Philippou, Bruna Papandrea, and James Cameron joining virtually. Sixteen finalist films competed, all featuring Tropfest’s 2026 signature item: an hourglass. Snook appeared engaged throughout the screenings, eventually taking the stage to present awards to the winners. She noted that “everyone’s got an iPhone or a phone that shoots well,” emphasizing how technology has lowered barriers for aspiring filmmakers.
margot robbie and sarah snook 🫶 pic.twitter.com/y6VbNdUlwu
— margot robbie crave (@addictionmargot) February 22, 2026
The top prize of $50,000 went to Lianne Mackessy for her film Crescendo, a project praised by Snook and the rest of the jury for its precise execution. Snook’s presence at the festival was more than ceremonial, she clearly wanted to support the next generation of Australian storytellers.
The festival appearance comes after an impressive start to 2026 for Snook. She recently received the AACTA Trailblazer Award for her impact on the international screen industry. In January, she also won a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a Limited Series for her role in the Peacock thriller All Her Fault.
In that show, she plays Marissa Irvine, a mother caught in a tense mystery after a playdate turns dangerous. The series features Jake Lacy, Dakota Fanning, and Michael Peña, and Snook also served as an executive producer on the eight-part show.
Snook’s success isn’t limited to screen work. She has been making waves in theater, performing a solo role in The Picture of Dorian Gray. Her performance earned both Olivier and Tony Awards, and she recently completed a successful Broadway run. There are rumors she may reprise the role in a film adaptation, produced by Cate Blanchett’s company. While she hasn’t confirmed details, she shared that “working on such a project would be a dream come true.”
Despite a busy international schedule in London and New York, Snook made time for Tropfest, showing her commitment to nurturing Australian talent. She described the festival as a space that “honours local talent” and encourages new voices to take creative risks.
The night ended under the Sydney stars with a clear sense that Snook is at the peak of her career. Whether judging films, leading high-profile television series, or performing on stage, she continues to inspire both audiences and emerging filmmakers.
What do you think of Sarah Snook’s recent performances and her dedication to supporting short films? Share your thoughts in the comments.