The Screen Actors Guild Awards, recently rebranded as the Actor Awards, returned on March 1, 2026, to celebrate the year’s most outstanding performances in film and television. What makes this event special is that winners are chosen by fellow actors, which makes each honor particularly meaningful in Hollywood.
Hosted again by Kristen Bell, the ceremony was held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles and streamed live on Netflix. The evening brought together top celebrities and featured emotional tributes along with several memorable moments. Here is a full recap of the biggest awards, powerful speeches, and notable red carpet appearances from the night.
Film Categories: Big Winners
Male Actor in a Leading Role
Michael B. Jordan won for his captivating role in Sinners. His emotional acceptance speech, expressing gratitude and reflecting on the power of storytelling, quickly became a fan favorite.
Female Actor in a Leading Role
Jessie Buckley took home the award for her moving performance in Hamnet, capping off an impressive awards season. Her speech celebrated perseverance, craft, and the art of acting itself.
Cast in a Motion Picture
The ensemble of Sinners won Outstanding Performance by a Cast. Widely considered the SAG equivalent of Best Picture. Their camaraderie and heartfelt gratitude on stage drew loud applause and cheers from the audience.
Supporting Performance Highlights
In supporting categories, veteran actor Sean Penn and rising star Amy Madigan earned wins for their roles in Weapons, delighting fans with memorable, scene-stealing performances.
Television Categories: Standout Honorees
TV continued to shine, with memorable performances recognized across drama, comedy, and limited series.
– Keri Russell won for her dramatic role in The Diplomat, adding another major award to her career.
– Noah Wyle earned the top male drama performance honour for The Pitt.
– In comedy, awards went to the ensemble and individual performers from The Studio.
– In limited series/TV movies, Michelle Williams and Owen Cooper were celebrated for their transformative work.
Lifetime Achievement: A Standing Ovation
One of the evening’s most touching moments came when Harrison Ford received the Life Achievement Award. With a career spanning decades, including iconic franchises, memorable performances, and cultural landmarks, Ford’s tribute moved the audience to a standing ovation.
Hollywood Glamour: Women Who Owned the Red Carpet
The red carpet, inspired by the theme “Reimagining Hollywood Glamour from the ’20s and ’30s,” mixed vintage elegance with modern flair:
Kristen Bell, hosting the evening, dazzled in a sparkling Georges Hobeika couture gown adorned with starburst details and diamond jewellery, setting a glamorous tone.
Gwyneth Paltrow made a triumphant return in a lingerie-inspired black Givenchy gown with tea-length skirt, balancing old-Hollywood allure with modern edge.
Emma Stone softened the theme with a floral-inspired lilac Louis Vuitton dress with a shrug, evoking chic retro elegance.
Sarah Pidgeon turned heads in a pink Balenciaga bubble-hem gown, combining playful shape with pastel glamour.
Irina Shayk, though not a nominee, stole the spotlight in a dramatic black corset gown with leather opera gloves, a bold, avant-garde red carpet moment.<
