The Oscar Nominations Are Out: Here Are the Black Men Who Were Nominated

The 97th Academy Awards nominees include Colman Domingo, RaMell Ross, Paul Tazewell, and Kris Bowers, celebrating Black talent in film.
Academy Award - Oscars

After two delays caused by the Southern California wildfires, the nominations for the 97th Academy Awards have finally been announced. Among the honorees, several Black men have received well-deserved recognition for their outstanding work.

One of the standout nominations is Nickel Boys for Best Picture. Based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the film tells the moving story of two Black teenagers forging a powerful bond as they endure the horrors of a reform school in Florida.

However, the announcement also brought disappointment. Many were surprised to find that Denzel Washington was not among the nominees. We thought Washington would receive his eleventh career Oscar nomination for his outstanding performance in Gladiator II, but his name was absent from the list.

Here’s a look at the Black men whose incredible work has earned them a place among this year’s nominees.

Colman Domingo: Best Actor in a Leading Role for Sing Sing

Colman Domingo’s powerful performance in Sing Sing has landed him a nomination for Best Actor. The film, based on real-life events, explores the transformative impact of a theater program on inmates at a maximum-security prison. Domingo’s portrayal is both raw and moving, capturing the humanity and resilience of his character.

RaMell Ross: Best Adapted Screenplay for Nickel Boys

RaMell Ross has received a nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay for his work on Nickel Boys. Ross’s script earned widespread acclaim and masterfully translated the novel’s emotional depth and historical significance to the screen.

Paul Tazewell: Best Costume Design for Wicked

Paul Tazewell has been recognized with a nomination for his costume design work on Wicked. Known for his innovative designs and attention to detail, Tazewell’s costumes for the film adaptation bring the fantastical world of Oz to life while honoring the story’s rich legacy.

Kris Bowers: Best Original Score for The Wild Robot

Kris Bowers continues to solidify his reputation as one of the most talented composers in Hollywood with a nomination for Best Original Score for The Wild Robot. The film, based on Peter Brown’s beloved novel, features a sweeping and emotive score that underscores its themes of survival, connection, and self-discovery.

The Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien, will be held at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood. It will air live March 2 at 7 p.m. ET on ABC and can be streamed live on Hulu.