Leonardo DiCaprio, the acclaimed actor known for his powerful performances, has been nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role at the upcoming Actor Awards. This ceremony, which was previously known as the Screen Actors Guild Awards, is set to take place on March 1 and will be streamed live on Netflix. However, it has been confirmed that DiCaprio will not be in attendance at the event.
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The actor is currently busy filming his latest project, a Martin Scorsese film titled *What Happens at Night*, in Europe. DiCaprio is collaborating once again with the legendary director, following their successful partnership in 2023’s *Killers of the Flower Moon*. The new film features DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence as a married couple who journey to a quaint snowy town in Europe to adopt a child. The screenplay is adapted from Peter Cameron’s novel of the same name.
In the race for the acting award, DiCaprio’s nomination comes in recognition of his role as Bob Ferguson, a far-left activist, in Paul Thomas Anderson’s politically charged thriller *One Battle After Another*. He will compete against notable actors including Timothée Chalamet for *Marty Supreme*, Ethan Hawke for *Blue Moon*, Michael B. Jordan for *Sinners*, and Jesse Plemons for *Bugonia*.
Speaking at the National Board of Review gala in January after winning an award for his performance, DiCaprio reflected on his early experiences with cinema. He recollected how his father took him to his first film at the age of four, recalling the awe he felt while watching *King Kong*. This significant moment instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for film as an escape and a medium where vast possibilities exist beyond one’s immediate surroundings.
DiCaprio’s absence from the Actor Awards follows a recent appearance at the British Academy Film Awards, where he was nominated for Best Leading Actor. At the BAFTAs, the award was won by Robert Aramayo for his role in *I Swear*. Nevertheless, *One Battle After Another* triumphed by winning the prestigious Best Film award. DiCaprio joined his co-stars on stage, offering support to Anderson as he quoted Nina Simone, stating, “I know what freedom is, it’s no fear,” and encouraged creatives to pursue their passions without fear.
Throughout this awards season, DiCaprio has been a prominent presence, recently spotted with his *One Battle After Another* castmates at the 2026 Golden Globes. There, their film was acknowledged as the Best Motion Picture in the Comedy or Musical category. Additionally, the film received accolades at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, where it was named Best Movie of the Year, further solidifying its critical acclaim alongside DiCaprio’s individual nomination for Best Actor.
As excitement builds towards the 98th Academy Awards, set for March 15, DiCaprio finds himself in contention for Best Actor once again. His nomination marks his sixth for this category, thereby equalling the record set by Richard Burton and Daniel Day-Lewis. *One Battle After Another* also garnered an impressive twelve nominations overall, including Best Picture.
The Actor Awards ceremony is poised to celebrate the achievements of the acting community, with its livestream on Netflix promising to bring the event directly to fans and audiences worldwide. Although DiCaprio will not be present, his impressive body of work and the impact he continues to make in the film industry remains evident. The actor’s commitment to his craft and his collaborations with visionary directors like Martin Scorsese and Paul Thomas Anderson speak volumes about his enduring legacy in the art of cinema.
As fans await the Actor Awards, anticipation is also palpable for the forthcoming Academy Awards, where DiCaprio once again aims for a coveted Oscar, reminding audiences of his significant contribution to the world of film.