Irish actress Jessie Buckley has declared herself "honoured" to receive an Academy Award nomination in the prestigious Best Actress category for this year's Oscars ceremony. The 36-year-old star from Killarney earned her place on the shortlist for her compelling portrayal of Agnes Hathaway, historically known as Anne, the wife of William Shakespeare, in the cinematic adaptation Hamnet.
A Celebrated Adaptation and a Notable Omission
The film Hamnet is based on Maggie O'Farrell's critically acclaimed, award-winning novel, which delves into the family life of the Bard and the tragic death of his young son. Buckley's co-star, fellow Irish actor Paul Mescal, played William Shakespeare in the production and was widely anticipated to secure a nomination in the Best Supporting Actor category. However, in a surprising turn of events, Mescal's name was absent when the nominations were announced on Thursday.
Buckley's Heartfelt Tribute to Her Co-Star
In an exclusive interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Jessie Buckley offered glowing praise for Paul Mescal's performance and addressed his omission directly. "I think he's extraordinary in this film," Buckley stated. "I know I've met a partner for life in doing this with him. I don't know what to say apart from he is, to me, my absolute. His artistry is something that will continue to grow and be a theme in so many different ways."
She further emphasised their collaborative bond, adding: "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. So, what is recognised belongs to him as much as him being recognised in his own category would."
Gratitude and Frontrunner Status
Speaking to the US magazine, Buckley also expressed profound gratitude for her personal nomination. "I'm so proud and honoured to be beside all those extraordinary women and to be there with Hamnet. I'm delighted," she said. The actress is now widely considered the frontrunner for the Best Actress Oscar, having already secured a string of major trophies including the Golden Globe and the Critics' Choice award for her role.
Elle Fanning's Joyous Reaction to Her Nomination
Meanwhile, US actress Elle Fanning has publicly shared her shock and elation after receiving her first Academy Award nomination. The 27-year-old star is nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the Norwegian film, Sentimental Value.
Fanning took to Instagram to post a heartfelt reaction, including a screenshot of herself crying during a FaceTime call. She wrote: "IS THIS REAL!?!?!?! IS THIS A DREAM!?!?!?! I can't catch my breath. I am in absolute shock. What an honour to have my first Academy Award nomination be for a film that acknowledges the power of moviemaking and family."
She continued, describing the emotional moment: "My mum, grandma, sister, and aunt were here with me this morning to scream and hug and cry. Thank you, thank you, thank you." Fanning added: "To be amongst the beautiful women in this category is truly overwhelming. I was equally overjoyed to see our entire Sentimental Value family recognised. I am filled with so much love. The whole house got nominated."
Widespread Recognition for 'Sentimental Value'
In her social media post, Fanning highlighted the multiple Oscar nods received by the Sentimental Value team. Norwegian actress Renate Reinsve was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role, while Stellan Skarsgård and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas received nominations for Actor in a Supporting Role and Actress in a Supporting Role, respectively.
The film's editor, Olivier Bugge Coutte, is up for the Film Editing Oscar, and writers Eskil Vogt and Joachim Trier received a nod for Best Original Screenplay. Director Joachim Trier is also nominated in the Directing category, and the film itself has been recognised with a nomination for Best International Feature Film, marking a significant achievement for the Norwegian production.
