Oscars latest: One Battle After Another takes top prize as Jessie Buckley and Michael B Jordan win gongs
Oscars Latest: One Battle After Another Dominates with Six Awards
The 2026 Academy Awards saw One Battle After Another claim the most accolades, winning six categories, including best picture and director for Paul Thomas Anderson. Star Jessie Buckley secured the best lead actress award for her role in Hamnet, while Michael B. Jordan triumphed in the best lead actor category for Sinners, a blues-infused vampire film that earned four awards this year.
Hollywood’s red carpet frenzy continued as stars gathered for the Vanity Fair afterparty. Among the notable reunions was the cast of Kpop Demon Hunters, a film about K-pop idols battling supernatural forces between performances. The movie, which took home best original song and animated feature awards, has already been celebrated for its Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice wins, as well as a Grammy.
Stars Shine Beyond the Ceremony
While the main stage was dominated by One Battle After Another, the afterparty offered its own spectacle. Chase Infiniti, a cast member of the film, made a bold entrance in a sleek black outfit. Rita Ora drew attention with a striking black headpiece, while Rei Ami from Kpop Demon Hunters opted for a daring red statement dress.
“For Korea and for Koreans everywhere,” said Maggie Kang, co-director of Kpop Demon Hunters, who made history as a first-time Oscar nominee. “And for those of you who look like me, I’m so sorry it took us so long to see ourselves in a film like this. But it’s here, and that means the next generations don’t have to go longing.”
Other highlights included the return of Bridesmaids‘ cast and a surprise appearance by Baby Yoda. Timothee Chalamet, despite not winning an Oscar, brought smiles to the afterparty with girlfriend Kylie Jenner. Singer Brandi Carlile and her spouse Catherine Carlile attended the ceremony together, adding to the evening’s eclectic mix of moments.
Kpop Demon Hunters’ Cultural Impact
The success of Kpop Demon Hunters at the Oscars has sparked celebration in South Korea. A local newspaper described the win as a “miracle,” underscoring the growing global influence of Korean culture. The film’s two Academy Awards join its list of achievements, including two Golden Globes, two Critics’ Choice honors, and a Grammy—marking the first K-pop song to claim such recognition.
Netflix has confirmed a sequel for Kpop Demon Hunters, easing concerns that the story might end with the ceremony. Meanwhile, the afterparty remained a hub for fashion and camaraderie, with stars like Buckley and Jordan showcasing their new looks. The night’s energy was matched by the dynamic between on-screen triumphs and off-screen interactions, proving that the Oscars’ magic extends far beyond the stage.
