Celebs Who Have Never Won An Award

The world of entertainment is filled with talented performers who have dedicated their lives to the craft of acting. While many stars have achieved global fame and critical success a select group of legendary actors has never taken home a major industry award. These individuals have delivered some of the most memorable performances in cinematic history across various genres. From seasoned veterans to modern icons their lack of a trophy remains a frequent topic of discussion among fans and critics alike. This list highlights some of the most notable celebrities who have yet to win a top competitive honor in their field.

Amy Adams

Amy Adams has received many nominations for her powerful work in films like ‘The Master’ and ‘Doubt’ over the years. She is widely considered one of the most talented actors working today without an Academy Award to her name. Her performance in ‘Arrival’ was highly praised by critics even though it did not lead to a victory. She continues to take on diverse roles that highlight her incredible range and emotional depth. Many fans believe it is only a matter of time before she finally wins the top industry prize.

Glenn Close

Glenn Close holds a significant record for receiving the most acting nominations without ever winning a competitive Oscar. She has delivered iconic performances in classic films such as ‘Fatal Attraction’ and ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ during her long career. Her work on the stage and on television has been recognized with other honors but the top film prize remains elusive. She garnered critical acclaim recently for her role in ‘The Wife’ which many expected to be her winning moment. Close remains a respected figure in Hollywood whose legacy is secure regardless of her trophy count.

Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper has evolved from a comedic actor into a powerhouse director and dramatic lead over the last decade. He has earned several nominations for his acting in films like ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ and ‘American Sniper’ without a win. His work in ‘A Star Is Born’ was a massive critical and commercial success that many thought would earn him the gold. Cooper continues to challenge himself by taking on complex characters and ambitious projects behind the camera. His dedication to his craft has made him a constant presence during the annual awards season.

Harrison Ford

Harrison Ford is one of the most successful and recognizable stars in the history of cinema. Despite his leading roles in massive franchises like ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Indiana Jones’ he has never won a competitive Academy Award. He received a single nomination for his performance in the thriller ‘Witness’ back in the eighties. Ford has spent decades as a leading man who brings gravitas and charisma to every project he joins. He eventually received an honorary award for his contributions to the film industry.

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise is a global icon known for his intense dedication to performing his own stunts in action films. He earned critical acclaim for his dramatic turns in ‘Jerry Maguire’ and ‘Magnolia’ which resulted in nominations. While he has been a major box office draw for nearly forty years he has not yet won an Oscar for acting. His recent work in ‘Top Gun Maverick’ reminded audiences of his enduring star power and impact on the industry. He remains one of the few remaining true movie stars in the traditional Hollywood sense.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson has appeared in more than one hundred films and is one of the highest grossing actors of all time. He received a nomination for his legendary role as Jules Winnfield in ‘Pulp Fiction’ but did not take home the trophy. His collaborations with major directors have defined modern cinema and influenced countless other performers. Although he has an honorary award he has never won a competitive Academy Award for a specific role. Jackson continues to be one of the most hardworking and prolific actors in the business.

Sigourney Weaver

Sigourney Weaver became a pioneer for female action stars with her portrayal of Ellen Ripley in the ‘Alien’ franchise. She earned nominations for her work in ‘Aliens’ as well as for her dramatic roles in ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ and ‘Working Girl’ in the same year. Her ability to command the screen in both science fiction and prestigious dramas is a testament to her versatility. Despite her status as a cinematic legend she has never won an Academy Award for her acting. Weaver remains a beloved figure who continues to work on massive projects like the ‘Avatar’ series.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves has led some of the most influential action movies of all time including ‘The Matrix’ and ‘John Wick’ over several decades. While he is celebrated for his professionalism and kindness on set he has never been a major recipient during awards season. His performances have shaped the action genre and garnered a massive following of dedicated fans across the globe. Reeves tends to focus on projects that interest him rather than those designed to win prestigious trophies. He remains a pillar of the film community even without a collection of golden statues.

Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey transformed from a physical comedian into a respected dramatic actor with roles in ‘The Truman Show’ and ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ throughout his career. Many critics felt he was overlooked for nominations during his peak years of creative output. His unique energy and commitment to his characters have made him one of the most recognizable faces in the world. Carrey has achieved massive commercial success but has never won an Academy Award for his work. He continues to be viewed as a generational talent who redefined what a leading man could look like.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz was one of the highest paid actresses in the world during the late nineties and early aughts. She received praise for her performances in ‘Being John Malkovich’ and ‘Gangs of New York’ but never secured an Oscar win. Her ability to lead both broad comedies and serious dramas made her a versatile star in the industry. Diaz took a long hiatus from acting before recently deciding to return to the screen for new projects. She remains a prominent figure who helped define a specific era of Hollywood filmmaking.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez has built a massive career as both a musician and a celebrated film actress. She earned rave reviews for her role in ‘Selena’ and more recently for her performance in the drama ‘Hustlers’ which many thought would lead to an award. Despite her long history in the industry and her status as a cultural icon she has not won an Oscar. Her work across various genres shows her range and her ability to draw audiences to theaters. Lopez continues to balance her multiple careers while looking for her next major dramatic role.

Courteney Cox

Courteney Cox became a household name for her role on the hit sitcom ‘Friends’ which ran for ten successful seasons. While her co stars received various individual honors she was famously the only lead cast member to never receive an Emmy nomination for the show. She later found success as a lead in the series ‘Cougar Town’ and the popular ‘Scream’ film franchise. Her career has spanned several decades and includes work as both an actress and a director. Cox remains a prominent figure in the entertainment world despite the lack of major individual trophies.

Edward Norton

Edward Norton burst onto the scene with an intense performance in ‘Primal Fear’ that earned him an immediate nomination. He followed this success with powerful roles in ‘American History X’ and ‘Birdman’ which further cemented his reputation as a serious actor. While he is known for his immersive approach to his characters he has not yet won an Academy Award. Norton is selective about his projects and often chooses complex or unconventional roles. His peers widely respect him as one of the most talented performers of his generation.

Ralph Fiennes

Ralph Fiennes delivered one of the most chilling performances in history as Amon Goeth in the film ‘Schindler’s List’ during the early nineties. He also earned a nomination for his leading role in ‘The English Patient’ but did not win the top prize. Fiennes has played a wide variety of roles ranging from the villainous Voldemort in ‘Harry Potter’ to comedic turns in ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ over the years. His classical training and range have made him a staple of both stage and screen. He continues to be a major force in the industry without an Oscar on his shelf.

Helena Bonham Carter

Helena Bonham Carter is known for her eccentric and transformative roles in both period dramas and fantasy films. She received nominations for her work in ‘The Wings of the Dove’ and ‘The King’s Speech’ but did not take home an award. Her long collaboration with certain directors has led to some of the most visual and unique characters in modern cinema. She has a reputation for bringing depth and humanity to even the most unusual individuals she portrays. Carter remains a highly sought after actress for her distinct style and immense talent.

Jake Gyllenhaal

Jake Gyllenhaal has consistently chosen challenging and gritty roles that push his limits as a performer. He earned a nomination for his supporting role in ‘Brokeback Mountain’ and has been praised for films like ‘Nightcrawler’ and ‘Zodiac’ since then. Despite his status as one of the best actors of his age group he has not yet won an Oscar. He is known for his physical transformations and his ability to inhabit the minds of troubled characters. Gyllenhaal continues to be a major draw for both independent films and blockbuster projects.

Toni Collette

Toni Collette is a versatile actress who has worked in her native Australia as well as in major Hollywood productions. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the thriller ‘The Sixth Sense’ early in her career. Many fans felt she was overlooked for her terrifying and emotional performance in the horror film ‘Hereditary’ a few years ago. While she has won awards for her work on television the top film honors have eluded her. Collette is widely regarded as one of the most consistent and talented actresses in the industry today.

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke has maintained a steady career as an actor and writer since his breakout role in ‘Dead Poets Society’ as a young man. He has earned four Academy Award nominations for both his acting and his screenwriting over the years. His work in the ‘Before’ trilogy is considered a landmark in romantic cinema and showcases his naturalistic style. Despite his longevity and multiple nominations he has never won a competitive Oscar. Hawke continues to pursue artistic projects that reflect his passion for storytelling and independent film.

Naomi Watts

Naomi Watts rose to international fame for her dual role in the psychological thriller ‘Mulholland Drive’ directed by David Lynch. She earned nominations for her powerful performances in ’21 Grams’ and ‘The Impossible’ during her peak years. Her ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability has made her a favorite among critics and audiences alike. While she has worked with some of the greatest directors in the world she has not won an Academy Award. Watts remains a prominent leading lady who consistently delivers high quality work.

Woody Harrelson

Woody Harrelson transitioned from a beloved television star on ‘Cheers’ to a successful film actor with a wide range. He has been nominated for his work in ‘The People vs Larry Flynt’ and ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri’ among other projects. His natural charisma and ability to play both heroes and villains have kept him relevant for decades. Despite three nominations he has never taken home the gold trophy from the Academy. Harrelson is one of the most prolific actors in Hollywood and appears in multiple films every year.

Stanley Tucci

Stanley Tucci is a respected character actor and leading man who has appeared in dozens of acclaimed films. He received his only Academy Award nomination for his chilling performance in ‘The Lovely Bones’ several years ago. Tucci is known for his sophisticated style and his ability to steal scenes in supporting roles. While he has won several awards for his work on television and in food related media he lacks an Oscar. He continues to be a favorite of both directors and audiences for his reliability and charm.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson has been a major star since her teenage years with her breakout role in ‘Lost in Translation’ earning her early acclaim. She achieved the rare feat of being nominated for two Academy Awards in the same year for ‘Marriage Story’ and ‘JoJo Rabbit’ recently. As one of the highest grossing actresses ever she has balanced massive blockbusters with intimate independent films. Despite her many accolades and status as a global star she has never won an Oscar. She continues to produce and star in major projects that showcase her evolving talents.

Benedict Cumberbatch

Benedict Cumberbatch gained worldwide fame for his portrayal of the title character in the television series ‘Sherlock’ over several years. He has earned Academy Award nominations for his roles in ‘The Imitation Game’ and ‘The Power of the Dog’ more recently. His distinct voice and intellectual presence have made him a top choice for playing historical figures and complex geniuses. Although he is a major figure in both the Marvel Cinematic Universe and prestige drama he has not won an Oscar. He remains one of the most prominent British actors working in Hollywood today.

Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie has quickly become one of the most influential actresses and producers in Hollywood since her role in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ a decade ago. She earned nominations for her performances in ‘I Tonya’ and ‘Bombshell’ while also leading massive hits like ‘Barbie’ recently. Her work as a producer has allowed her to champion female led stories and create opportunities for other artists. Despite her immense impact on the industry and her critical success she has yet to win an Academy Award. Robbie is expected to remain a front runner for major honors for many years to come.

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan earned her first Academy Award nomination at the age of thirteen for her role in ‘Atonement’ many years ago. She has since received three more nominations for her leading roles in ‘Brooklyn’ and ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Little Women’ as she grew up. Her ability to inhabit her characters with such authenticity has made her one of the most respected actors of her generation. Even with four nominations to her name she has not yet won the top prize in her field. Ronan continues to choose prestige projects that highlight her remarkable maturity and skill as a performer.

Adam Driver

Adam Driver became a major star through his role in the television series ‘Girls’ and his portrayal of Kylo Ren in ‘Star Wars’ films. He has earned Academy Award nominations for his work in ‘BlacKkKlansman’ and ‘Marriage Story’ for his intense and physical acting style. Driver is known for his commitment to his roles and his willingness to work with auteur directors on challenging material. Despite his rapid rise to the top of the industry he has not yet won an Oscar. He remains one of the most sought after actors for his unique screen presence and range.

Carey Mulligan

Carey Mulligan gained international attention for her breakout role in ‘An Education’ which earned her an early Academy Award nomination. She has since been nominated for her work in ‘Promising Young Woman’ and ‘Maestro’ which showcased her incredible dramatic abilities. Mulligan is known for her subtle and emotionally resonant performances in a wide variety of period and contemporary films. While she is a frequent presence at awards shows she has not yet taken home a trophy. She continues to be a favorite of critics for her thoughtful approach to her craft.

Rooney Mara

Rooney Mara earned critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her transformative role in ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ several years ago. She received a second nomination for her work in the romantic drama ‘Carol’ where she held her own against veteran performers. Mara is known for her quiet intensity and her ability to convey a great deal of emotion with very little dialogue. Despite her consistent work in high quality films she has not yet won an Oscar. She remains a respected figure in the independent film community and beyond.

Michael Fassbender

Michael Fassbender is recognized for his intense and often physical performances in films like ‘Hunger’ and ‘Shame’ over the course of his career. He received Academy Award nominations for his roles in ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘Steve Jobs’ which further proved his dramatic range. Fassbender has balanced his work in independent cinema with major franchise roles in the ‘X-Men’ series. Although he is widely considered one of the best actors of his generation he has not won an Oscar. He continues to take on demanding roles that challenge both himself and the audience.

Jude Law

Jude Law became a major leading man in the late nineties with his Oscar nominated performance in ‘The Talented Mr Ripley’ during his early career. He earned a second nomination for his leading role in ‘Cold Mountain’ but did not win either time. Law has maintained a steady career in both blockbusters and prestige dramas while also working extensively in the theater. His charm and versatility have allowed him to play a wide variety of characters across many different genres. He remains a prominent figure in the industry without an Academy Award on his resume.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Salma Hayek made history when she became the first Mexican actress to be nominated for a Best Actress Oscar for her role in ‘Frida’ two decades ago. She has spent much of her career advocating for better representation in Hollywood and producing her own projects. Her work in both comedic and dramatic roles has made her a versatile and enduring star in the industry. Despite her long career and her status as a pioneer she has not won a competitive Academy Award. Hayek continues to be a major force in the entertainment world as both an actress and an entrepreneur.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle has built a career on his ability to play a wide variety of roles with intelligence and grace. He received an Academy Award nomination for his powerful leading performance in ‘Hotel Rwanda’ which brought him international acclaim. Cheadle is also a major part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and has been recognized for his work on television with several Emmy nominations. While he has received many other honors he has not yet won an Oscar for his film work. He continues to be one of the most respected and reliable actors in Hollywood.

Mark Ruffalo

Mark Ruffalo has earned four Academy Award nominations for his supporting roles in films like ‘The Kids Are All Right’ and ‘Spotlight’ and ‘Poor Things’ recently. He is known for his naturalistic acting style and his ability to bring a sense of humanity to every character he plays. Ruffalo has balanced his work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a strong commitment to independent film and social activism. Despite his frequent appearances during awards season he has not yet taken home a trophy. He remains one of the most beloved and talented actors working today.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson earned an Academy Award nomination for her breakout role in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ several years ago. She has since become a major star on television with her role in ‘Empire’ and has led successful films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Color Purple’ more recently. Her high energy and emotional depth have made her a favorite among audiences and critics alike. While she has won many other awards for her work she has yet to win an Oscar. Henson continues to be a powerful voice in the industry who champions diverse stories.

Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe is a legendary character actor known for his distinct face and his willingness to take on unconventional and challenging roles. He has received four Academy Award nominations for his work in films like ‘Platoon’ and ‘The Florida Project’ and ‘At Eternity’s Gate’ over the years. Dafoe has worked with some of the most celebrated directors in cinema history across a wide variety of genres. Despite his massive body of work and his status as a master of his craft he has not won an Oscar. He remains a prolific and highly respected performer who continues to push boundaries.

Ed Harris

Ed Harris is known for his intense screen presence and his ability to play authoritative figures with a sense of hidden vulnerability. He has been nominated for four Academy Awards for his performances in films like ‘Apollo 13’ and ‘The Truman Show’ and ‘The Hours’ throughout his career. Harris is also a respected director and stage actor who has received numerous accolades in those fields. While he is widely regarded as one of the best actors of his time he has never won a competitive Oscar. He continues to be a staple of the industry who brings weight to every project he joins.

Viggo Mortensen

Viggo Mortensen became a global star through his role as Aragorn in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy but he has always returned to independent film. He has earned three Academy Award nominations for his leading roles in ‘Eastern Promises’ and ‘Captain Fantastic’ and ‘Green Book’ over the years. Mortensen is known for his intense preparation and his commitment to the authenticity of his characters. Despite his critical success and his reputation for excellence he has not yet won an Oscar. He remains a dedicated artist who often avoids the typical Hollywood spotlight.

Laura Linney

Laura Linney is a highly respected actress who has found success on the stage and on television as well as in film. She has received three Academy Award nominations for her work in ‘You Can Count on Me’ and ‘Kinsey’ and ‘The Savages’ during her career. Her ability to portray complex and intelligent women has made her a favorite of dramatic filmmakers. While she has won multiple Emmys and Tonys she has not yet won the top prize from the Academy. Linney continues to deliver powerful performances that showcase her immense range and technical skill.

Diane Lane

Diane Lane has been a professional actress since she was a child and has appeared in many classic films throughout several decades. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her career defining performance in the drama ‘Unfaithful’ several years ago. Lane is known for her elegance and her ability to anchor a film with her emotional depth. Despite her long history in the industry and her status as a respected veteran she has not won an Oscar. She remains a prominent leading lady who consistently works in both film and television.

John Malkovich

John Malkovich is a unique and eccentric performer who has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema and theater. He received Academy Award nominations for his roles in ‘Places in the Heart’ and ‘In the Line of Fire’ during the eighties and nineties. Malkovich is known for his distinct voice and his ability to play highly intelligent or deeply disturbed characters with ease. While he is a legendary figure in the acting community he has not won a competitive Oscar. He continues to take on diverse and interesting projects that showcase his unconventional talent.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy is recognized for his physical transformations and his intense commitment to his roles in both independent films and blockbusters. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role in the survival drama ‘The Revenant’ where he held his own against top talent. Hardy has played a wide variety of characters ranging from the villainous Bane in ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ to the title role in ‘Mad Max Fury Road’ over the years. Despite his status as one of the most exciting actors working today he has not won an Oscar. He continues to choose projects that allow him to explore the darker side of human nature.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne has had a long and varied career starting from his time as a young actor in the classic film ‘Apocalypse Now’ several decades ago. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of Ike Turner in the biopic ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ in the nineties. Fishburne is perhaps most famous for his role as Morpheus in ‘The Matrix’ trilogy which became a cultural phenomenon. While he has won awards for his work on the stage and on television an Oscar win has eluded him. He remains a powerful presence in Hollywood who brings gravitas to every role.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson transitioned from a teenage idol in the ‘Twilight’ series to one of the most daring actors of his generation through independent film. He has earned rave reviews for his work in ‘The Lighthouse’ and ‘Good Time’ but has not yet been nominated for an Oscar. His commitment to working with visionary directors has helped him shed his former image and build a reputation as a serious talent. While he is now a major star once again as the lead in ‘The Batman’ he is still looking for his first major industry trophy. Pattinson continues to surprise audiences with his bold choices and evolving range.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart became an international star as a teenager but has since focused her career on challenging and artistic films. She became the first American actress to win a Cesar Award in France and later earned an Oscar nomination for her role in ‘Spencer’ recently. Her naturalistic style and her ability to handle intense media scrutiny have made her a unique figure in modern Hollywood. Despite her critical acclaim and her work with legendary directors she has not yet won an Academy Award. She remains a prominent and influential actress who continues to push the boundaries of her craft.

Chris Evans

Chris Evans is widely known for his decade long portrayal of Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe which made him a global superstar. While he has focused on large scale action films he has also delivered strong performances in smaller dramas like ‘Gifted’ and on the Broadway stage. Evans has moved into directing and producing while continuing to look for roles that challenge his public persona. Despite his massive success and his status as a beloved leading man he has never been a recipient of a major acting award. He continues to be a major force in the industry as he explores new creative directions.

Chris Hemsworth

Chris Hemsworth rose to fame as the god of thunder in the ‘Thor’ and ‘Avengers’ films and quickly became a top tier leading man. He has shown a surprising talent for comedy in films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Thor Ragnarok’ which expanded his appeal to audiences. While he is one of the most recognizable faces in the world he has not yet been recognized by major awards bodies for his work. Hemsworth continues to lead massive action projects while also taking on more dramatic roles in films like ‘Rush’ and ‘Spiderhead’ lately. He remains a prominent star who is constantly working to improve his craft.

James McAvoy

James McAvoy has earned critical praise for his versatile performances in both small independent films and large scale blockbusters over the years. He received significant attention for his roles in ‘Atonement’ and ‘The Last King of Scotland’ early in his career. McAvoy is also known for his incredible work in the ‘X-Men’ series and his terrifying performance in the thriller ‘Split’ where he played multiple personalities. Despite his undeniable talent and his ability to carry a wide variety of films he has not won an Academy Award. He remains one of the most respected actors from the United Kingdom working today.

Emilia Clarke

Emilia Clarke became a global icon for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in the hit series ‘Game of Thrones’ which earned her several Emmy nominations. Since the show ended she has transitioned into film roles in romantic comedies and major franchises like ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Terminator’ with varying success. Her charm and emotional range have made her a favorite among fans even without a major individual trophy to her name. Clarke has also worked on the stage and has been open about her personal health struggles during her rise to fame. She continues to look for her next big role that will showcase her talents beyond the world of fantasy.

Lena Headey

Lena Headey delivered one of the most memorable television performances in history as the villainous Cersei Lannister in ‘Game of Thrones’ over eight seasons. She received several Emmy nominations for her work on the show but famously never won the award. Her career has also included strong performances in films like ‘300’ and ‘The Purge’ where she played tough and complex women. Headey is known for her ability to play characters that audiences love to hate with deep emotional complexity. Despite her impact on popular culture and her critical success she is still waiting for her first major industry win.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds has built a massive career based on his quick wit and his ability to lead major action comedies like ‘Deadpool’ over the last decade. While he is one of the most successful stars and entrepreneurs in Hollywood he has not been a frequent presence during awards season. His comedic timing and his commitment to his characters have made him a favorite of audiences around the world. Reynolds has found a niche that allows him to produce and star in films that reflect his unique sense of humor and style. He remains a prominent figure in the industry who has achieved massive success even without a collection of prestigious awards.

Share your own thoughts about which of these talented stars deserves to finally win an award in the comments.