Ethan Hawke has been nominated for Best Actor at the upcoming 2026 Oscars, recognising his captivating performance in *Blue Moon*. This nomination marks a significant milestone in Hawke’s career as it is his fifth nod from the Academy. Previous nominations include notable roles in *Before Sunset* and *Boyhood*, as well as for his scriptwriting on *Before Midnight*.
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Reflecting on his journey, Hawke recently shared memories of his first nomination for *Training Day*, which was released in 2001. The film, which showcased the complex dynamics between a rookie and a veteran police officer in Los Angeles, introduced Hawke to the Oscars stage when he was just 31. Now, at 55, he describes this latest nomination as a full circle moment. “I was the youngest in my category and now I’m the oldest,” he stated, emphasising how quickly the years have flown by.
Despite the passage of time, Hawke expressed gratitude for his enduring career in acting. “It feels like six years ago that *Training Day* came out to me in my brain,” he noted, reflecting on the fleeting nature of time in the entertainment industry. With a sense of humility, he continued, “I’m incredibly grateful to be here and to still be doing this dance because I enjoy it a lot.”
Looking back to his initial nomination, Hawke remembers the excitement of sharing the experience with Denzel Washington, his co-star in *Training Day*. Recognising Washington’s stature as one of the greatest actors of his time, Hawke felt immensely fortunate to have worked alongside him. “I don’t know if I needed a lot of advice,” he mused, before adding that he was simply enjoying the moment without anxiety or nerves.
In addition to his award nominations, Hawke’s collaboration with director Richard Linklater has proven to be a fruitful partnership over the years. Their latest project, *Blue Moon*, marks their ninth collaboration, beginning with *Before Sunrise* in 1995. “We’ve been pushing each other and driving each other for 30 years,” Hawke remarked, illustrating the deep mutual respect and creative synergy they share. The duo is already working on a tenth project, further cementing their enduring relationship in film.
Hawke is not only recognised at the Oscars but is also nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role at the 2026 Actor Awards. Ironically, this is a category in which he was previously nominated for his role in *Training Day*. This consistent recognition reflects both his talent and the respect he commands within the cinematic community.
Alongside Hawke, this year’s Best Actor category includes a stellar lineup of nominees: Timothée Chalamet (*Marty Supreme*), Leonardo DiCaprio (*One Battle After Another*), Michael B. Jordan (*Sinners*), and Wagner Moura (*The Secret Agent*). Each actor has delivered impressive performances, making the competition particularly fierce.
The 98th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, is set to take place on 15 March 2026. It will be broadcast live on ABC and available for streaming on Hulu. Beginning in 2029, future awards ceremonies will transition to YouTube, indicating a shift in how audiences engage with this celebrated event.
As the Oscars approach, Hawke’s reflective attitude and successful career serve as a testament to his passion for acting. Whether he takes home the coveted award or not, his journey in cinema continues to inspire both colleagues and aspiring actors alike.