The Academy’s 2025 Oscar nominations are in, and they’ve left a trail of jaw-dropping snubs. Big names like Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, Denzel Washington, and Pamela Anderson were shut out, sparking shock and disappointment across Hollywood.
Here’s the rundown on who got snubbed and why fans are outraged.
Jolie left out despite praise
Angelina Jolie, 49, seemed like a sure thing for an Oscar nomination after a string of wins and nominations for her role in the Maria Callas biopic. She earned a Golden Globe nod, an Astra Film Award, and a Critics’ Choice Movie Award for her captivating portrayal of the legendary opera singer. Plus, she was honored at the 2024 Gotham Awards. Yet, despite all the buzz, the Academy ignored her, even though she was previously nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award.
Kidman’s performance goes unnoticed
Nicole Kidman, 57, also received critical acclaim for her role in Babygirl. Her portrayal of a CEO involved in a controversial affair with her younger intern had everyone talking, especially after the viral milk scene. She earned Golden Globe recognition and took home the International Star Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. However, Kidman was left off the Oscars’ Best Actress list, leaving fans scratching their heads.
Washington snubbed for Gladiator II
Denzel Washington, a two-time Oscar winner, was also shut out this year. His stellar performance in Gladiator II had audiences buzzing, with many calling it the highlight of Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel. Washington was recognized by the Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice Awards, but the Academy chose to pass on his supporting role. The film still received a nomination for Best Costume Design, but many believe Washington deserved more.
Anderson’s career-best performance overlooked
Pamela Anderson, 57, delivered what critics are calling the performance of her career in The Last Showgirl, directed by Gia Coppola. Her portrayal of showgirl Shelly Gardner earned her a Golden Globe and a SAG nomination, but the Oscars didn’t take notice. After years of being pigeonholed into roles, Anderson’s performance in this Hollywood comeback had fans hoping for an Academy nomination—but they were left disappointed.
Selena Gomez snubbed despite Emilia Perez’s 13 nominations
Selena Gomez was another major snub this year. While Emilia Perez scored an impressive 13 nominations, including nods for co-stars Zoe Saldana and Karla Sofía Gascón, Gomez was completely left out of the Best Supporting Actress category. Despite winning awards and taking home the Cannes Film Festival’s Best Actress honor alongside Saldana and Gascón, the Academy ignored her. Fans were furious, especially since Gomez had previously earned BAFTA, Golden Globe, and SAG nominations for her role.
Denis Villeneuve misses out on best director
Another major disappointment was the snub of Denis Villeneuve, the director of Dune: Part II. The film, which starred Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, received a Best Picture nomination, but Villeneuve was left out of the Best Director race. His film was widely praised, and many expected the director to be recognized for his visionary work. But the Academy didn’t see it that way.
Other notable snubs
Several other deserving films and actors were left off the list. Margaret Qualley was snubbed for The Substance, despite her co-star Demi Moore receiving a Best Actress nomination after winning the Golden Globe. Daniel Craig was also left out, even though his portrayal of a gay American expat in Queer was widely praised. Disney’s Moana 2 missed out on a Best Animated Feature nomination, even though the original Moana was nominated in 2016. And Challengers—which many thought would be a contender—received zero nominations.
The Academy Awards will air live on ABC on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. Will these snubs lead to further controversy? Time will tell.
