At the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, Australian actor Jacob Elordi took home the Best Supporting Actor award for his breathtaking performance as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein. Beating out a star-studded field including Benicio del Toro, Paul Mescal, Sean Penn, Adam Sandler, and Stellan Skarsgård, Elordi’s win marks a turning point in his career. From the intense preparation for the role to his heartfelt acceptance speech, this article explores every aspect of Elordi’s journey, his role in Frankenstein, the competition he faced, and what this award signals for the upcoming awards season.
Jacob Elordi’s Big Night at Critics Choice
Jacob Elordi’s Critics Choice victory on January 4, 2026, was one of the most talked-about moments of the evening. At just 28, Elordi’s win for Best Supporting Actor signals a new level of recognition for the Australian actor, whose career has been steadily ascending over the past few years. His performance in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein impressed critics and audiences alike, combining emotional depth, physicality, and subtlety rarely seen in the portrayal of the Creature.
In his acceptance speech, Elordi expressed surprise and gratitude, saying, “Bloody hell — I really didn’t plan for this,” before thanking the film’s director, his family, and the creative team who made the character come alive. His humility and warmth captured the hearts of viewers, making his win feel genuine and inspiring.
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The Role That Stole the Show
In Frankenstein, Elordi plays the Creature, a complex figure caught between humanity and monstrosity. Unlike traditional portrayals that emphasize terror, Elordi’s interpretation highlights vulnerability, curiosity, and longing for connection. Guillermo del Toro’s visionary direction allowed Elordi to explore the Creature’s emotional world, turning a classic horror icon into a deeply humanized character.
This role required intense physical preparation and hours in prosthetics, transforming Elordi’s appearance while retaining the expressiveness needed to convey the Creature’s inner turmoil. Critics praised his ability to communicate profound emotion even without dialogue, using body language, facial expressions, and timing to craft a truly memorable performance.
The Competition Was Fierce
Elordi’s win is even more impressive considering the nominees in his category:
- Benicio del Toro (One Battle After Another)
- Paul Mescal (Hamnet)
- Sean Penn (One Battle After Another)
- Adam Sandler (Jay Kelly)
- Stellan Skarsgård (Sentimental Value)
Each nominee delivered powerhouse performances, making the Best Supporting Actor category one of the most competitive of the night. Industry insiders noted that Elordi’s transformative role in a visually and emotionally ambitious film gave him a unique edge.
Emotional Acceptance and Gratitude
During his speech, Elordi thanked key figures who contributed to his success:
- Guillermo del Toro, for trusting him with such a demanding and iconic role
- His parents, for supporting his acting dreams
- The film’s production team, especially the prosthetics and effects artists who brought the Creature to life
Elordi’s acknowledgment of the collaborative effort behind the character highlighted his professionalism and respect for the craft. He also joked about being unprepared, adding a relatable, human touch that endeared him to viewers.
Behind the Scenes: Bringing the Creature to Life
Playing the Creature demanded more than standard acting skills. Elordi had to endure daily prosthetic applications that took several hours, learn precise physical movements, and convey emotion through facial expressions hidden beneath elaborate makeup. This dedication underscored his commitment to the role and impressed critics and fans alike.
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein reimagines Mary Shelley’s novel with modern cinematic techniques, blending horror, drama, and emotional depth. Elordi’s Creature is central to this vision, offering audiences a fresh perspective on a classic story. His performance has been described as “heartbreaking and mesmerizing,” a true testament to his talent and range.
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Industry Buzz and Awards Season Implications
Jacob Elordi’s Critics Choice win has generated considerable buzz in the entertainment industry. Awards season pundits suggest this could influence other ceremonies, including the Golden Globes and the Oscars, positioning Elordi as a serious contender in the Best Supporting Actor race.
The recognition also elevates his career trajectory, transitioning him from popular youth roles in series like Euphoria to serious, dramatic work recognized by critics. Fans and industry insiders alike are taking note of his ability to inhabit complex characters, which could lead to more high-profile roles and collaborations with acclaimed filmmakers.
The Making of a Career-Defining Role
Elordi’s journey to the Critics Choice stage reflects years of hard work:
- Early breakout roles in teen dramas gave him visibility
- Challenging indie projects allowed him to showcase emotional range
- Frankenstein provided the opportunity for transformation, both physically and emotionally
This trajectory illustrates how Elordi carefully selected roles that would build credibility and showcase his acting skills. The Critics Choice win validates this strategy and marks a turning point in his professional narrative.
Fans React to the Win
Fans quickly expressed excitement across social media, praising Elordi’s performance and celebrating his rise as one of Hollywood’s most promising young actors. Many highlighted the uniqueness of his portrayal, noting that he brought depth and humanity to a character often associated with horror tropes.
Celebrities and colleagues also shared congratulations, reinforcing the significance of this achievement in the entertainment community. The win not only celebrates Elordi’s talent but also showcases the collaborative effort behind the film, highlighting the importance of prosthetics, makeup, and visual effects teams in modern cinema.
A Turning Point for Jacob Elordi
This Critics Choice victory is more than an award; it’s a career milestone. For Elordi, it signifies recognition from peers and critics alike and validates his choice to take on challenging, transformative roles.
It also sets a precedent for the kinds of projects he may pursue in the future — ambitious, character-driven films that demand versatility and emotional depth. With awards season momentum, Elordi’s profile is likely to rise significantly, opening doors to both independent and blockbuster projects.
Looking Forward: What’s Next
As awards season continues, industry insiders will be watching Elordi closely. The Critics Choice win positions him favorably for nominations in upcoming ceremonies and cements his status as a rising star in Hollywood.
Beyond awards, fans are eager to see how he continues to evolve as an actor, taking on roles that challenge him creatively and emotionally. His journey from television to transformative film roles demonstrates a dedication to craft that will likely define his career for years to come.
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FAQs
Who won Best Supporting Actor at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards?
Jacob Elordi won Best Supporting Actor for his role as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein.
What role did Jacob Elordi play?
He portrayed the Creature, bringing emotional depth and vulnerability to the iconic character.
Was this his first major acting award?
Yes, this Critics Choice win marks Elordi’s first major acting award.
Who were the other nominees?
Other nominees included Benicio del Toro, Paul Mescal, Sean Penn, Adam Sandler, and Stellan Skarsgård.
Could this win impact the Oscars race?
Yes, industry analysts believe this victory increases Elordi’s chances for recognition in future awards, including the Oscars.
What made his performance stand out?
His dedication to the role, including hours in prosthetics, physical transformation, and emotional nuance, set his performance apart from the competition.
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I’m Atul Kumar, founder of Cine Storytellers and an entertainment creator with 5+ years of experience. I cover films, celebrities, music, and OTT content with a focus on accurate, ethical, and engaging storytelling. My goal is to bring readers trustworthy entertainment news that informs, inspires, and goes beyond gossip.
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