Hollywood's Biggest Shocks Unveiled: The 2026 Oscar Nominations Deliver Historic Highs, Heartbreaking Snubs, and Unexpected Surprises

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations for the 98th Academy Awards today, setting the stage for one of the most unpredictable Oscar seasons in recent memory. While Ryan Coogler's *Sinners* made history with a record-breaking **16 nominations**—the most ever for a single film—the morning was equally defined by stunning omissions and surprising inclusions that have left fans, critics, and industry insiders buzzing.

### Historic Milestone

- *Sinners* (Ryan Coogler) dominated the conversation with its unprecedented haul, earning nods across major categories including Best Picture, Director, and multiple acting and technical slots. The film's period drama and ensemble cast—including standout performances from **Delroy Lindo** and **Wunmi Mosaku**—propelled it into record territory, surpassing previous benchmarks and positioning it as a frontrunner.

### Biggest Snubs

The Academy's choices sparked widespread debate, with several high-profile contenders left out entirely:

- **Wicked: For Good** — The highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster musical adaptation was completely shut out, receiving **zero nominations** despite massive box office success, critical praise for its spectacle, and strong buzz for **Ariana Grande**'s performance as Glinda. The snub is being called one of the most shocking in years, with many questioning the Academy's stance on big-budget musicals.

- **Ariana Grande** (Supporting Actress, *Wicked: For Good*) — Grande's widely acclaimed turn failed to land a nomination, marking a major disappointment for fans and the film's supporters.

- **Paul Mescal** (Supporting Actor, *Hamnet*) — The *Gladiator II* and *Normal People* star, long considered a lock, was surprisingly omitted.

- **Chase Infiniti** and other rising talents — Several buzzed-about newcomers and veterans alike missed out, contributing to the sense of unpredictability.

Additional notable absences included **George Clooney** (for his project *Jay Kelly* or similar), **Amanda Seyfried**, and certain women composers, highlighting ongoing discussions about category representation.

### Biggest Surprises

Amid the omissions came joyful shocks that energized the race:

- **F1** (Brad Pitt starrer) — The high-octane racing drama roared into **Best Picture** contention, a surprise inclusion that many attribute to its crowd-pleasing appeal and technical prowess. It earned nods in multiple categories, proving that "comfort-food" blockbusters can still win Academy favor.

- **Elle Fanning** (Supporting Actress, *Sentimental Value*) — The young star earned a long-overdue nomination, delighting fans and marking a breakthrough moment.

- **Delroy Lindo** and **Wunmi Mosaku** (*Sinners*) — Both secured nominations, with Lindo's powerful performance and Mosaku's supporting work standing out as well-deserved inclusions.

- **Kate Hudson** — A surprise nod added veteran star power to the mix, while other under-the-radar picks like **Nicholas Pike** brought fresh energy.

The nominations reflect a diverse slate, blending prestige dramas, genre films, and bold directorial visions. With *Sinners* leading the pack and surprises like *F1* shaking up the Best Picture race, this year's Oscars promise intense competition and plenty of drama leading up to the ceremony.

Fashion and film icons gathered in Rome to bid a poignant farewell to legendary Italian designer Valentino Garavani

 **Fashion and film icons gathered in Rome** to bid a poignant farewell to legendary Italian designer **Valentino Garavani**, affectionately known as the "emperor" or "Last Emperor" of haute couture, who passed away at the age of 93 on January 19, 2026.

The emotional funeral service took place on **January 23, 2026**, at the historic **Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri** in Rome. Valentino's signature vibrant red—iconic in his collections—was echoed throughout the ceremony, from floral tributes to attire worn by mourners, symbolizing the enduring legacy of his bold, elegant aesthetic.

A star-studded crowd of fashion titans, Hollywood royalty, supermodels, and longtime admirers paid their respects:

- **Fashion heavyweights** including **Donatella Versace**, **Tom Ford**, **Maria Grazia Chiuri** (Dior), and **Anna Wintour** (former Vogue editor-in-chief).

- **Actresses** such as **Anne Hathaway**, **Elizabeth Hurley**, **Gwyneth Paltrow**, **Cate Blanchett**, **Julia Roberts**, **Sophia Loren**, and **Jessica Lange**—many of whom famously wore Valentino gowns on red carpets and at Oscar ceremonies.

- **Models** like **Natalia Vodianova**, **Bianca Brandolini d'Adda**, and **Cindy Crawford**.

- Close companions including Valentino's longtime business partner and co-founder **Giancarlo Giammetti** (in a sharp black satin suit) and his partner **Bruce Hoeksema**.

The two-day public viewing (wake) began earlier in the week at **PM23**, an arts and culture space in Rome, allowing thousands of fans and admirers to pay homage before the private family service.

Valentino Garavani, born in 1932 in Voghera, Italy, founded his eponymous house in 1960 and became synonymous with timeless glamour, exquisite tailoring, and his beloved "Valentino Red." He dressed generations of royals, first ladies (including Jackie Kennedy), and screen legends, earning him the moniker "fashion's last emperor." His influence spanned decades, from dressing Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor to modern stars, and his retirement in 2008 marked the end of an era in haute couture.

Tributes poured in from across the industry, with many describing him as a visionary who elevated Italian fashion globally. The ceremony was described as moving and celebratory, reflecting a life of extraordinary creativity and elegance.

Images from the event show elegant black attire mixed with pops of red, emotional hugs among icons, floral arrangements in Valentino's signature hue, and the grand basilica setting— a fitting send-off for one of fashion's greatest masters.

Rest in peace, Valentino. Your red will forever shine. ❤️🇮🇹✂️

Cameron Diaz, 53, Flaunts VERY Youthful Appearance on Rare Red Carpet at Glitzy 2026 WWD Style Awards

Hollywood icon **Cameron Diaz** made a stunning and rare red carpet return last night, turning heads with her remarkably youthful glow at the second annual WWD Style Awards held at the Regent Santa Monica Beach on Friday, January 9, 2026.

The 53-year-old actress, who has largely stepped back from the spotlight in recent years to focus on family, business ventures like Avaline wine, and her occasional acting comebacks, attended the event to support her longtime friend and collaborator, celebrity makeup artist **Gucci Westman**. Westman was honored as the 2026 Red Carpet Makeup Artist of the Year.

Here are some standout moments from Diaz's glamorous appearance:

Diaz embraced a chic "quiet luxury" aesthetic in an elongated black ensemble featuring a sleek, ankle-grazing dress topped with an oversized blazer draped effortlessly over her shoulders. Her signature blonde waves were parted to the side, falling softly past her shoulders, while subtle makeup — including a radiant warm blush and vibrant red satin lip — highlighted her fresh, ageless complexion. Minimal gold earrings kept the focus on her timeless elegance.

The event, which kicked off Golden Globes weekend, celebrated the creative forces behind red carpet fashion, beauty, and accessories. Other honorees included the late Giorgio Armani (Red Carpet Visionary, accepted by George Clooney), Demi Moore (Fashion Icon), Pamela Anderson (Beauty Icon), Hailey Bieber (Style Trailblazer), and more. The star-studded guest list featured A-listers such as Kristen Stewart, Emily Blunt, Mindy Kaling, Cindy Crawford, and Paris Hilton.

Fans and media quickly praised Diaz's radiant appearance, with many noting how she continues to defy time while maintaining her signature effortless charm. Her rare outing serves as a reminder of her enduring influence in Hollywood, even after stepping away from full-time acting for much of the past decade.

Sydney Sweeney Steals the Spotlight with Daring Cleavage-Baring Look at Golden Globes Pre-Party Despite Awards Snub

Actress and producer Sydney Sweeney made a bold statement on the red carpet last night, turning heads in a stunning, figure-hugging one-shoulder black dress that accentuated her famous curves at a high-profile Golden Globes pre-party — all while navigating the disappointment of being overlooked in this year's nominations.

The 28-year-old *Euphoria* star attended the glamorous soiree, co-hosted by Variety and the Golden Globes at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Friday evening. Despite her critically praised lead performance in the boxing biopic *Christy* receiving no recognition in the 2026 Golden Globe nominations announced last month — a notable snub amid the film's mixed box-office performance — Sweeney arrived radiating confidence and glamour.

Here are some standout moments from her red carpet appearance:

The sleek, form-fitting gown highlighted her toned physique and featured a dramatically plunging neckline, paired with soft makeup that emphasized her striking blue eyes and a subtle nude lip. Sweeney posed effortlessly for photographers before joining fellow A-listers inside, including nominated stars like Teyana Taylor (*One Battle After Another*) and Kate Hudson (*Song Sung Blue*).

Industry observers see the appearance as a powerful reminder of Sweeney's enduring star power, even amid recent awards-season setbacks. Her portrayal of trailblazing boxer Christy Martin in *Christy* earned praise for its intensity and transformation, yet the project — which premiered in November 2025 — was entirely shut out of the nominations, joining other high-profile omissions like *Wicked: For Good*.

Fans and media alike flooded social platforms with admiration for Sweeney's unapologetic style and poise, with many calling it a "masterclass in owning the moment" and speculating on her next move in a packed career that includes upcoming projects like *The Housemaid*.

Sydney Sweeney continues to captivate audiences on screen and off, proving that true influence extends far beyond award trophies.

Hailey Bieber Turns Up the Heat with Sultry Bedroom Snaps Following Steamy Victoria’s Secret Campaign

Supermodel and Rhode founder Hailey Bieber is once again commanding attention, sharing a series of bold, intimate bedroom photographs that have set social media ablaze just days after her highly anticipated Victoria’s Secret return.

The 29-year-old Rhode skin-care mogul and runway icon posted the provocative images to her Instagram grid late Thursday evening, showcasing a playful yet undeniably sensual side in delicate lingerie and minimal styling. The cheeky bedroom series features Hailey posing confidently against soft neutral linens, with strategic cropping, sultry gazes, and a knowing smile that perfectly balances effortless glamour with unapologetic allure.

The timing of the personal post comes on the heels of Bieber’s widely celebrated re-debut with Victoria’s Secret, where she starred in the brand’s latest campaign photographed by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott. The official VS images—described by fans and critics alike as “dangerously sexy” and “peak Hailey”—featured the model in signature winged looks reimagined for 2026, blending archival nostalgia with modern edge.

Industry insiders note that the back-to-back visual moments appear to be a deliberate flex of creative control, with Hailey seamlessly transitioning from high-fashion commercial work to intimate, self-directed content that speaks directly to her 52+ million Instagram followers.

“Hailey has always understood the power of contrast,” said one longtime collaborator close to the campaign. “She can walk an Angel runway in full theatrical wings one day and then drop something raw, personal, and completely her own the next. That duality is what keeps people obsessed.”

While the bedroom snaps carry no official caption beyond a simple heart-eyes emoji, fans quickly flooded the comments with fire and flame emojis, declarations of “this is her villain era,” and playful demands for a Rhode x Victoria’s Secret collaboration.

The images have already garnered millions of likes and shares within hours, cementing Hailey Bieber’s status not only as one of the most influential faces in fashion, but also as a master of curating desire on her own terms.

Pastor Dr. Paul Enenche Categorically Dismisses Allegations of Using Church Funds for Personal Lifestyle

The Senior Pastor of **Dunamis International Gospel Centre**, Dr. Paul Enenche, has firmly rejected and dismissed recent unfounded claims suggesting that church funds are being used to finance his personal lifestyle or that of his family.

In a recent sermon delivered during a church service, Pastor Enenche addressed the allegations head-on, describing assumptions linking his personal possessions—such as suits, watches, or other items—to church offerings as "mumu-ishness of sense" (foolishness of reasoning). He emphasized the transparent and accountable structure of the ministry's finances since its inception in 1996.

Pastor Enenche stated:

> “From day one till now, the church cheque book has not been in our possession. Neither I nor my family has ever had access to it.”

He further clarified that proceeds from his personally authored devotionals (*Seeds of Destiny*), CDs, books, and other materials sold through the ministry have never been used for personal expenses.

> “Not one naira of it has been used to buy a tie or socks; how much more church offering?” he declared.

The Pastor highlighted his detachment from materialism, revealing that many items received as gifts remain unused or are generously given away.

> “I gave out about 200-and-something suits in one day. Go, it’s enough,” he added.

Pastor Enenche reiterated that his personal needs and those of his family are met independently of church resources, consistent with the ministry's commitment to integrity, stewardship, and kingdom-focused priorities. He urged believers to shift attention from material pursuits to spiritual growth and God's kingdom.

> “Let’s stop living for things and start living for God and the kingdom. When you do, the things people are chasing will start chasing you.”

Dunamis International Gospel Centre remains dedicated to its mandate of restoring human lives and destinies through the power of the Gospel, upholding the highest standards of financial transparency and accountability.

This statement serves to reaffirm the church's position and to encourage the public to disregard baseless speculations that seek to distract from the ministry's impactful work.

Watch Video Snippet: "THE QUIET RESILIENCE" Album still Blazing on all Streaming Platform as ENERGY Bank released some beautiful and melodious visuals on some major tracks

“The Quiet Resilience” captures Energy Bank’s journey through strength, vulnerability, and self-discovery. The EP’s soundscape blends smooth vocals, infectious beats, and heartfelt storytelling — offering listeners a soothing yet energizing musical experience that celebrates both introspection and joy.

With no featured artists, Energy Bank uses this body of work to deliver a deeply personal statement, reminding fans that true power often lies in quiet confidence and emotional honesty.

STREAM HERE

Check out some Visual Snippet Below:

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Stream THE QUIET RESILIENCE HERE 

Sam Armytage Shuts Down the Rumours with a Sizzling Revenge Dress at Marie Claire Australia’s Women of the Year Awards

Samantha Armytage made an unforgettable return to the spotlight last night, turning heads and silencing the critics in a jaw-dropping “revenge look” at Marie Claire Australia’s 2025 Women of the Year Awards held at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.

The former Sunrise co-host and current host of Farmer Wants A Wife walked the red carpet in a daring black Toni Maticevski gown featuring a plunging neckline, dramatic thigh-high split and figure-hugging silhouette that left little to the imagination. Paired with sleek black stilettos, a sleek high ponytail and a bold red lip, the 49-year-old broadcaster radiated confidence and unapologetic glamour.

The appearance comes just weeks after Armytage publicly addressed ongoing body-shaming and media scrutiny surrounding her weight and personal life, telling critics in a widely shared Instagram post: “I’m happier, healthier and more at peace than I’ve ever been – your opinion doesn’t change that.”

Last night, actions spoke louder than words.

“Samantha looked absolutely phenomenal,” said Marie Claire Australia editor Georgie Abay. “She owned that red carpet like the powerhouse she is. This was her moment, and she took it with style, grace and a little bit of fire.”

Armytage, who was honoured at the event with the Media Trailblazer Award for her two-decade career across breakfast television, regional reporting and prime-time hosting, used her acceptance speech to thank supporters and deliver a subtle but pointed message to detractors.

“I’ve learned that the best revenge is living well – and maybe wearing a really great dress while you’re at it,” she quipped to laughter and applause from the star-studded crowd, which included Jessica Rowe, Julia Morris, Celeste Barber and Pip Edwards.

The Maticevski gown – custom-made for Armytage in just six days – has already been dubbed the “revenge dress of 2025” by fashion commentators, drawing inevitable comparisons to Princess Diana’s iconic 1994 Christina Stambolian little black dress.

“It was all Sam,” Maticevski said backstage. “She walked into the atelier and said, ‘I want to feel strong, sexy and completely myself.’ Mission accomplished.”

Armytage later posted a series of red-carpet photos to Instagram with the simple caption: “Thank you Marie Claire. Thank you Toni. And thank you to everyone who’s had my back this year. We rise. 🖤”

The post received more than 85,000 likes within hours, with fans flooding the comments: “Queen behaviour”, “That dress just ended careers”, and “Sam Armytage just won 2025.”

Currently in her second season hosting Channel Seven’s Farmer Wants A Wife – which continues to dominate Monday night ratings – Armytage has proven that at 49, her best chapters are still being written, on her own terms and in sky-high heels. 

Beyoncé Dazzles at F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix with Show-Stopping Fashion Moments

 The neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit weren't the only thing illuminating the 2025 Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix this weekend. Global superstar Beyoncé Knowles-Carter turned the high-octane event into her personal runway, captivating audiences with a series of bold, race-inspired ensembles that blended luxury, edge, and unapologetic glamour. Accompanied by her husband, Jay-Z, the 44-year-old icon made a rare public appearance, proving once again why she's not just a music legend, but a timeless force in fashion.

From the moment Beyoncé stepped into the paddock on Saturday, November 22, all eyes were on her. Kicking off the evening in a custom Louis Vuitton racing-style jumpsuit, the garment was a masterclass in sleek sophistication. Crafted in pristine white leather with daring red and black paneling, the piece featured a plunging open neckline that exuded confidence and control. Adorned with signature LV monogram detailing, the jumpsuit was completed with matching leather race-car gloves, black combat boots, and oversized aviator sunglasses—perfect accessories for a queen ready to conquer the track. Beyoncé's blonde curls cascaded effortlessly, framing her signature bold makeup, while Jay-Z kept his vibe effortlessly cool in an all-black ensemble, allowing his wife's style to take center stage.

But Beyoncé didn't stop at one look; she delivered a wardrobe change worthy of a encore performance. As the night revved up, she channeled her inner Sasha Fierce in a pantsless red vinyl bodysuit emblazoned with the iconic Ferrari logo—a fiery homage to the speed demons tearing up the circuit. The glossy, form-fitting piece hugged her silhouette like a second skin, paired with sheer black tights for an added layer of sultry intrigue. She elevated the outfit with red platform ankle-strap heels that screamed power, black leather fingerless gloves for that racer's grip, and a checkered clutch purse nodding to the classic flag motifs of motorsport. A matching red coat draped dramatically over her shoulders added a touch of Hollywood drama, while oversized black sunglasses and a baseball cap lent an air of mysterious cool. Her hair fell in voluminous blonde ringlets, and a matching hot red lip sealed the ensemble as a total knockout.

"Beyoncé didn't just attend the Grand Prix—she owned it," said fashion critic Vanessa Friedman of The New York Times, who was among the throngs of photographers and fans buzzing in the VIP stands. "Her looks fused the adrenaline of F1 with the precision of high fashion, turning a racetrack into a catwalk. It's Beyoncé at her best: innovative, inclusive, and impossible to ignore."

The fashion fireworks extended beyond the outfits. In a moment that sent social media into overdrive, Beyoncé took to the track for an exclusive hot lap alongside Ferrari ambassador and seven-time F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton. Donning a sleek racing helmet, she slipped into the passenger seat of a roaring Ferrari supercar, captioning her Instagram video of the adrenaline-fueled ride with a playful "Give it to Mama!" The clip, which racked up over 10 million views in under 24 hours, showed Beyoncé flashing a triumphant smile as the car hit blistering speeds, her custom gear gleaming under the Strip's glow. Hamilton, a longtime advocate for fashion and culture in motorsport, later shared a grid-side chat with the power couple, calling the experience "electric."

Fans, affectionately known as the BeyHive, flooded X (formerly Twitter) with praise. "Beyoncé just lapped the entire fashion world at #VegasGP," tweeted one enthusiast, while another gushed, "That red vinyl? Iconic. The Louis Vuitton? Legendary. Queen Bey serving speed and style! 🔥🚀." Celebrities joined the chorus: Kelly Rowland commented fire emojis on Beyoncé's post, declaring her a "HOT THANG!!!!!!," and the official Formula 1 account welcomed her with a regal "Welcome to the paddock, @Beyonce 👑."

Beyoncé's appearance at the Las Vegas Grand Prix underscores her enduring influence on the intersection of music, sports, and style. Fresh off her groundbreaking Cowboy Carter tour—where she pushed boundaries with custom looks from designers like Loewe and Balmain—the multi-hyphenate continues to redefine what it means to dress for the moment. Her quarantine-era "Fashion Fridays" ritual with children Blue Ivy, Rumi, and Sir evolved into a family tradition of creativity, and now, it's inspiring a new generation of style risk-takers on the global stage.

The 2025 F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix wasn't just a race; it was a spectacle amplified by stars like Cynthia Erivo in leather-on-leather chic, Naomi Campbell in snakeskin sophistication, and Brooks Nader channeling paddock glamour. Yet, it was Beyoncé who crossed the finish line first in the style stakes, leaving an indelible mark on one of motorsport's most glamorous stops.

For more on Beyoncé's style evolution and the Cowboy Carter era, visit beyonce.com. High-res images and video from the event are available upon request.