Teenage sensation Owen Cooper has cemented his place in awards history, becoming the youngest actor ever to win a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series. The 16-year-old star of Netflix's 'Adolescence' claimed the prestigious honour at the 2026 ceremony, delivering a heartfelt speech that paid tribute to his family and his beloved football club, Liverpool.
An Emotional Night for a Record-Breaking Teen
Accepting the award, Cooper expressed his sheer disbelief at the accolade. "Wow, standing here with a Golden Globe, it does not feel real whatsoever," he told the star-studded audience. He reflected on the remarkable journey he and his family have experienced, stating they were "forever grateful" for the support that propelled his career.
The actor, who first gained fame for his portrayal of a teenage murder suspect, recounted his humble beginnings in drama classes. "I was the only boy there. It was embarrassing," he admitted, but emphasised his continued growth, saying, "I’m still very much an apprentice. So still learning every day." He concluded his speech with a clear nod to his footballing loyalties, declaring, "Bring on 2026. You’ll never walk alone," referencing the famous Liverpool FC anthem.
Surpassing Previous Records
Cooper's victory is a landmark moment in Golden Globes history. He surpasses the previous record held by Chris Colfer, who was 20 when he won for 'Glee' in 2010. Cooper now stands as the second-youngest winner across all categories in the awards' history. The overall record is still held by Ricky Schroder, who was just nine years old when he won the 'New Star of the Year' award for 'The Champ' in 1980.
This Golden Globe adds to Cooper's rapidly growing collection, which already includes an Emmy and a Critics’ Choice award for the same breakthrough performance.
A Night of Powerful Speeches and Celebrated Wins
The 2026 ceremony was filled with memorable moments beyond Cooper's historic win. The first award of the evening went to Teyana Taylor, who won Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Film for 'One Battle After Another'. In a powerful acceptance, she delivered a message of empowerment: "To my brown sisters and little brown girls watching tonight, our softness is not a liability. Our depth is not too much. Our light does not need permission to shine."
Other notable winners included:
- Stellan Skarsgård for Best Supporting Actor in 'Sentimental Value'.
- Noah Wyle for Best Actor in a TV Drama for 'The Pitt'.
- Jean Smart for Best Actress in a TV Musical/Comedy for 'Hacks'.
- Seth Rogen for Best Actor in a TV Musical/Comedy for 'The Studio'.
The ceremony also saw the inaugural Golden Globe for Best Podcast awarded to 'Good Hang with Amy Poehler'. The night celebrated both established talent and, in Owen Cooper's case, the dazzling arrival of a record-breaking new star.
