The May Fair Hotel in London provided a glittering backdrop on Sunday evening as the entertainment industry's finest gathered for the prestigious Critics' Circle Theatre Awards. Leading the constellation of stars was the radiant Jessie Buckley, whose appearance marked another highlight in what has become an extraordinary awards season for the acclaimed actress.
A Night of Fashion and Celebration
Jessie Buckley commanded attention in a stunning white sequined floor-length dress that perfectly captured the celebratory mood of the evening. The dazzling ensemble featured an elegant high neckline, dramatic billowing sleeves, and a subtle slit at the back that added a contemporary edge to the classic silhouette. The Hamnet star complemented the look with sophisticated silver heels and wore her hair in an elegant updo, creating a polished appearance that photographers couldn't resist.
Buckley wasn't alone in making fashion statements at the event. Cynthia Erivo brought her distinctive style to the occasion in a strapless ruched brown dress that featured a dramatic train flowing behind her. The Wicked actress accessorised with striking drop pearl earrings and showcased her signature long, manicured fingernails, demonstrating her attention to detail in every aspect of her presentation.
Star-Studded Attendees
The red carpet saw numerous other notable arrivals throughout the evening. Hannah Waddingham made a memorable entrance in a chic little black dress paired with knee-high black leather heeled boots, creating a look that was both stylish and powerful. She posed alongside her friend Mazz Murray, who opted for a sophisticated black dress featuring delicate lace detailing.
Timothee Chalamet kept his approach more understated but equally stylish, choosing a dark brown suit with distinctive black lapels that reflected his signature aesthetic. Meanwhile, actress Lesley Sharp impressed in a cream power suit as she posed with actor and director Douglas Hodge, demonstrating that tailored separates can make just as strong an impact as evening gowns.
Buckley took the opportunity to pose with her Hamnet co-stars Noah and Jacobi Jupe, with Noah wearing an embroidered brown shirt and matching trousers while Jacobi chose a mustard-coloured satin shirt. The cast also gathered with their producer Liza Marshall, who looked stylish in a well-cut suit, creating a memorable group photograph that captured the camaraderie of the production team.
Oscar Recognition and Competitive Field
The evening held special significance for Jessie Buckley, who recently received the exciting news of her Oscar nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in Hamnet. This recognition comes on the heels of her recent Golden Globe and Critics Choice awards, marking what has become an exceptionally successful period for the talented performer.
Speaking about the nomination, Buckley expressed both excitement and humility. "I'm so proud and honoured to have been nominated for my portrayal of Agatha Shakespeare," she told The Hollywood Reporter. "My baby's screaming in the background, but I am thrilled. I'm so proud and honoured to be beside all those extraordinary women and to be there with Hamnet. I'm delighted."
The Best Actress category promises to be highly competitive this year, with Buckley facing formidable competition from Rose Byrne for If I Had Legs I Would Kick You, Kate Hudson for Song Sung Blue, Renate Reinsve for Sentimental Value, and Emma Stone for Bugonia. The ceremony will take place in Los Angeles on March 15th, where Buckley will attend as a nominee just four years after receiving recognition for The Lost Daughter.
Recognition for Hamnet Ensemble
Hamnet has received widespread critical acclaim and earned a total of eight Oscar nominations, including the coveted Best Picture accolade and Best Director for Chloe Zhao. However, many were surprised by Paul Mescal's omission from the Best Supporting Actor category, given his powerful performance in the film.
When asked about her co-star's absence from the nominations, Buckley was quick to praise his contribution to their shared work. "I think he's extraordinary in this film," she said. "I know I've met a partner for life in doing this with him. His artistry is something that will continue to grow and be a theme in so many different ways."
Buckley went further, emphasising the collaborative nature of their performances. "I know what we created together is something that's so special to us, and I hold that so dearly in my heart, and there's no part of Agnes that exists without Paul. There's no part of what I created or what we created in this story which exists without Paul and what he poured into this story. So what is recognised belongs to him as much as him being recognised in his own category would."
This generous acknowledgement highlights the strong creative partnership between the two actors and underscores the ensemble nature of their acclaimed work in Hamnet.
