Ruth E. Carter Makes Oscar History Again With 'Sinners' Nomination
Acclaimed costume designer Ruth E. Carter has made Oscar history once more, securing her place as the most-nominated Black woman in Academy Awards history across any category. Her latest nomination comes for her work on Ryan Coogler's blues-infused vampire epic 'Sinners', set in the Jim Crow-era Mississippi Delta.
A Landmark Achievement in Hollywood
With this nomination, Carter has now received five Oscar nods throughout her illustrious career, surpassing Oscar-winning actor Viola Davis. She is currently tied with longtime collaborator Spike Lee and Morgan Freeman for the third-most nominations among Black creatives, trailing only the late Quincy Jones and Denzel Washington.
"It's ... pride, gratitude, responsibility," Carter told The Associated Press upon learning of her nomination. The trailblazing designer previously made history by becoming the first Black woman to win two Academy Awards, for 'Black Panther' in 2018 and 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever' in 2023.
Authentic Storytelling Through Costume Design
In 'Sinners', Carter approached costume design as an act of protection rather than mere embellishment. She was determined to safeguard the visual truth of Black working-class life, particularly focusing on sharecroppers and migrants of the early 20th century.
"We made something out of nothing," Carter explained. "There were hand-me-downs. There were patches. If the pants were long, we turned them up. If the hem was crooked, we left it. We wanted to show how we took things for what they were and still found a way to celebrate."
This philosophy reflects Carter's broader career mission: "My trajectory has been about telling the story of culture. Our history is being erased as we speak. So to have this responsibility of telling our stories — and being as authentic as I can — and being awarded for it, is a celebration."
A Career of Visual Excellence
Over her decades-long career, Carter has shaped the visual language of some of Hollywood's most influential films. Her previous Oscar nominations include work on Spike Lee's 'Malcolm X' and Steven Spielberg's 'Amistad'. She has also received widespread acclaim for her period ensembles in projects including:
- 'The Butler'
- 'Selma'
- The reboot of 'Roots'
Her designs have been worn by legendary performers including Denzel Washington, Oprah Winfrey, Eddie Murphy, and Jerry Seinfeld—even for the original 'Seinfeld' pilot.
Collaboration and Cultural Impact
The nomination marks another successful collaboration with director Ryan Coogler, whom Carter credits as a vital voice for the future of Black cinema. "I thank the Lord that Ryan Coogler was born," she said with a laugh. "Because he continues to tell stories that are important to the culture."
Carter sees her continued recognition as evidence of staying power in an industry often defined by constant reinvention. "I was the first to be nominated. I was the first to win. And I'm still in the game," she reflected. "If my being here tells young designers anything, I hope it's that this isn't a fluke. It's hard work. It's voice. It's vision. And it's staying."
This historic nomination represents what Carter describes as "a major step in the development of our voices in Hollywood," solidifying her legacy as both a pioneer and enduring force in cinematic costume design.
