Exciting news hit the entertainment world on January 8, 2025, when the nominations for the 31st Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards were unveiled. Leading the movie field was the musical film ‘Wicked,’ which received an impressive five nominations, including the coveted Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. Meanwhile, the nominations in general stirred a blend of excitement and surprise among fans and fellow actors alike.
“Wicked” Tops Nominations to the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards
Many fans of the Broadway hit turned film, ‘Wicked,’ were thrilled to see it shine with five nominations. Among the recognition, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Bailey stood out with individual nominations. Their performances have been hailed as captivating, helping to make the show a beloved favorite across audiences of all ages. The SAG Awards are often seen as a bellwether for the upcoming Academy Awards, adding extra weight to these nominations.
Out-of-Control Wildfires Affect SAG Awards Announcement
The SAG Awards nomination announcement faced an unusual delay due to wildfires raging across Los Angeles and Southern California. Initially planned for a live event, the announcement was shifted online, revealing a full list of nominees through press releases instead. The wildfires served as a harsh reminder of nature’s power, even impacting the entertainment industry.
The Other Nominees for Best Ensemble
While ‘Wicked’ stole the spotlight, other films and shows were also recognized. ‘A Complete Unknown’, a drama featuring Timothée Chalamet, received four nominations, showcasing its strong narrative and performances. Another notable entry, ‘Emilia Pérez,’ was featured prominently in multiple categories, as it gains recognition for its storytelling and acting.
An Impressive Field of Best Male Lead Nominees
This year’s nominations for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role also reflected a rich mixture of talent. Timothée Chalamet for ‘A Complete Unknown’ and Kieran Culkin for his work in ‘The Brutalist’ were among the impressive names. Notably, Jonathan Bailey earned three nominations, including one for ‘Wicked’ and one for ‘Bridgerton,’ reinforcing his reputation as a versatile performer.
Prominent Snubs in the Nominations
No award season is complete without a set of surprising snubs, and this year was no different. Two of Hollywood’s biggest names, Angelina Jolie and Nicole Kidman, were noticeably absent from the nominations list. Meanwhile, Selena Gomez and Margaret Qualley found themselves missing out on expected nominations, leaving many fans and industry insiders shocked.
Predictive Power of the SAGs
The SAG Awards are considered a strong predictor of who might walk away winners at the Oscars. With many actors and films from this year’s nominations previously securing key awards, everyone’s eyes are on how these choices will shape the upcoming Academy Awards. The SAGs not only celebrate acting excellence but also spark conversations about the trajectory of award seasons.
‘Shōgun’ Continues to Dominate Television Nominations
On the television side, ‘Shōgun’ emerged as a leader with five nominations, reflecting its popularity and critical acclaim. Celebrated for its gripping storyline and exceptional performances, ‘Shōgun’ is clearly taking center stage on TV this year. Its remarkable run in the nominations shows a growing appreciation for shows that blend rich storytelling with incredible talent.
Jane Fonda and Kristen Bell in the Spotlight
This year’s SAG Awards will also highlight Jane Fonda, who is set to receive the prestigious Life Achievement Award for her iconic contributions to the film industry. Additionally, the ceremony will be hosted by Kristen Bell, promising an entertaining show. Fans are already looking forward to February 23rd when the awards will be streamed live on Netflix, adding to the anticipation.
| Performance Category | Nominees |
|---|---|
| Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture | ‘Wicked’, ‘A Complete Unknown’, ‘The Last Showgirl’, ‘Emilia Pérez’, ‘Anora’ |
| Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role | Timothée Chalamet, Kieran Culkin |
| Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role | Demi Moore, Cynthia Erivo |
The stage is set, and the excitement is building as fans await the ceremony. The nominations from the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards not only shape up the Oscars race but also celebrate the powerful performances that captivated audiences throughout the year.