AACTA Awards 2026: Wins, Celebrations, & Star-Studded Fun
The AACTA Awards (Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards) are Australia’s premiere film and television events, often referred to as the “Oscar’s of Australia.” It is a week long celebration with two major nights—the Awards Industry Gala and the AACTA Awards Ceremony—recognizing excellence in television, film, documentary, and short-form content.
The AACTA was originally the Australian Film Institute (AFI) Awards that began in 1958 which rebranded into AACTA in 2011 to include international film and television categories and recognition. The awards, presented by Foxtel Group, are held at Home of the Arts (HOTA)—the Industry Gala was held on Wednesday, February 4 and the AACTA ceremony held on Friday, February 6, 2026.
Winners of the Night
One of the night’s unsurprising wins was The Newsreader who continued their winning streak legacy racking up 4 of the 12 nominations, including Best Drama Series and Best Screenplay in Television for Episode 6, “The Fall.” But a couple of projects stood above the rest, not only dominating in nominations, but in wins too.
Bring Her Back—supernatural body horror about step-siblings fighting for their life—brought in 10 of their 16 nominations including Best Film, Best Direction, Best Editing, and Best Cinematography. In other words: watch this movie! Additionally, one that was unexpected (at least here at So There’s That) was the Jacob Elordi led drama The Narrow Road to the Deep North claiming 9 of its 12 nominations, including Jacob snagging Best Lead Actor in a Drama, Best Miniseries, and Heather Mitchell winning Best Supporting Actress in a Drama.
In the International Awards, some of the hottest U.S film and television projects walked away with the coveted trophy, although some of which you didn’t expect. Of the expected wins (let’s face it, some shows and movies came through dominating the scene in 2025) are Adolescence (International Award for Best Drama Series), The Studio (Best Comedy Series), and One Battle After Another for Best Film.
But some projects and performers received recognition here that didn’t translate to other major awards but is still an incredible accomplishment on the Australian stage. Gary Oldman (Slow Horses) walked away with Best Actor in a Series, a category that has been dominated by Stephen Graham in every other awards ceremony. Additionally, Sarah Snook (All Her Fault) beat out Jean Smart (Hacks) in Best Actress in a Series. Other wins include Sentimental Value, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, Weapons, and Frankenstein.
Snubs…Maybe?
Sinners made Oscar’s history with 16 nominations, a nomination in every category they were eligible. However, at the AACTA’s, One Battle After Another walked away in their competing categories with Best Direction in Film and Best Film.
Additionally, Sam Reid’s performance in Season 3 of The Newsreader has been hailed as one of the best performances of a lifetime. He, however, lost out to Jacob Elordi for Best Lead Actor in a Drama for The Narrow Road to the Deep North. While Jacob’s light is shining bright and in a way that is changing the trajectory of his career, many fans still feel that Reid’s performance outweighed those of his fellow nominees.
A Night of Celebration
Regardless of the commentary between who won and who was snubbed, the AACTA Awards was a night of star-studded celebration—of industry professionals coming together to support their work and the work of their peers on Australia’s biggest stage. For fans, many are just finding out that their favorite performers are Australian; increasing awareness and visibility for international audiences to continue to support the arts globally, not just within their respective countries.
For a list of all the winners, visit AACTA official website.
© Kivonshe | So There’s That
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