Teenage actor Owen Cooper has made television awards history, becoming the youngest ever winner of a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Male Actor in a Television role at just 16 years old.
A Historic Night for a Young Star
The young star, who plays Jamie Miller in the hit Netflix drama Adolescence, took home the prestigious prize at the ceremony held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles on Sunday, 11th January 2026. Overwhelmed by his victory, Cooper described the moment as "mad" while reflecting on the "incredible journey" that brought him to the stage.
He triumphed over a field of seasoned actors including his co-star Ashley Walters, Billy Crudup from The Morning Show, Walton Goggins and Jason Isaacs of The White Lotus, and Tramell Tillman from Severance.
From Drama Class Embarrassment to Golden Glory
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Cooper recounted his humble beginnings. "What started off as something I thought I might be OK at, I might be awful, I took a risk and went to drama classes," he told the audience. "I was the only boy there, it was embarrassing. But I got through it and I'm still very much an apprentice, still learning every day."
After thanking his family and the team behind Adolescence, the actor concluded with an inspiring message and a nod to his favourite football team, declaring: "Bring on 2026. You'll never walk alone." This four-word phrase is the famous anthem of Liverpool Football Club.
A Big Night for the 'Adolescence' Cast
Cooper was not the only member of the Adolescence cast to celebrate that evening. His co-star Erin Doherty was visibly shocked to win the award for Best Supporting Female Actor in a Television role, beating nominees from The White Lotus, Hacks, and The Studio.
Doherty, who broke a promise to her mother not to swear on TV in her surprise, dedicated her award to therapists, stating: "Life can be tough, mental health is everything, so thank you to therapists, and it was an honour to play one."
The limited series was one of the night's biggest winners, also scooping the Golden Globe for Best Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Television Motion Picture. Veteran actor Stephen Graham, who stars in the show, won Best Male Actor in a Limited Series.
The ceremony marked a landmark achievement for British talent, with a 16-year-old from Merseyside securing his place in the Golden Globes history books while proudly representing his roots.
