**Jessie Buckley Makes Oscar History with Best Actress Win at 98th Academy Awards**
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In a remarkable night for Irish cinema, Jessie Buckley achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Irish actress to win the Academy Award for Best Actress at the 98th Academy Awards held on March 15. Buckley, celebrated for her role in the film *Hamnet*, expressed her joy and gratitude backstage, highlighting both her professional triumph and her personal milestones.
The 36-year-old actress, who welcomed her daughter Isla only eight months ago, shared a heartfelt moment with the press, revealing that her little girl had just cut her first tooth. “It feels like some kind of crazy alchemy that all of these things are colliding on a day like today,” she remarked, illustrating the intersection of her personal and professional life on such an auspicious occasion.
Buckley’s victory came on a day that also marked Mother’s Day in the UK, a coincidence she embraced during her acceptance speech. “What a gift,” she declared about her role as Agnes Shakespeare in *Hamnet*. The recognition she received on a day honouring mothers resonated deeply with her, adding an emotional layer to her achievement. “To receive this recognition of the incredible role mothers are playing in our world on this day is something I will never, ever forget,” she stated.
In the backstage press conference, Buckley conveyed her appreciation for the overwhelming support she has received from fans and colleagues alike. With a hint of playfulness, she urged her supporters to continue celebrating, saying, “Don’t go to bed, keep partying! I’m so grateful for the support and I feel the love, man. I feel it from young people and old people, from women and men, and from my family.”
The Kerry-born star expressed her joy at sharing this moment with her family, who had flown in from places as far away as New Zealand and Australia to celebrate her win. “To be here tonight with all my family […] makes it real. They’re the people who built me,” she reflected, emphasising the importance of her loved ones in her journey to success.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Buckley also extended her gratitude to her husband, Freddie, whom she described as “the most incredible dad” to their daughter. The couple, who married in 2023, have largely kept their relationship private, with Buckley previously discussing Freddie’s preference for anonymity due to his work in the mental health field. She affectionately noted her eagerness to explore motherhood further, stating, “You’re my best friend and I want to have 20,000 more babies with you!”
Before her historic win, Buckley had been nominated for an Oscar in 2021 for her supporting role in *The Lost Daughter*. Her performance in *Hamnet* not only earned critical acclaim but also showcased her versatility as an actress. The film, directed by Chloé Zhao, features Paul Mescal as William Shakespeare and was nominated in eight categories at this year’s Academy Awards.
Buckley’s career has been marked by a series of impressive roles, including her current performance alongside Christian Bale in *The Bride!*, directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal and currently in theatres. Her entry into Hollywood has been meteoric, winning accolades and recognition for her talent.
As the night came to a close, Jessie Buckley’s win not only signalled a personal triumph but also represented a significant moment for Irish women in film. Buckley’s historic achievement is a source of pride for her nation and an inspiration for aspiring actors everywhere. Her heartfelt reflections on motherhood and artistry underscore the depth of her achievement, ensuring that both her Oscar and her journey as a new mother will be cherished for years to come.