Nigerian-British actor Wunmi Mosaku attends the 32nd Annual Actor Awards.
Image: Patrick T. Fallon / AFP
The 2026 Actor Awards red carpet delivered a dazzling mix of unforgettable glamour and confusing fashion choices, proving once again that the real drama often happens before the trophies are handed out.
Held on Sunday night at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles, the ceremony celebrated the year’s best performances in film and television while quietly ushering in a new era.
Formerly known as the SAG Awards, the show has officially been renamed the Actor Awards by the Screen Actors Guild to make its purpose clearer for audiences around the world.
With the spotlight firmly on performers, the name change marks a fresh chapter for one of Hollywood’s most respected awards nights.
Hosted by Kristen Bell, the evening also served as one of the final major stops before the Oscars later this month.
This year’s dress code, “Reimagining Hollywood Glamour from the ’20s and ’30s,” inspired many stars to lean into vintage elegance, with mixed results.
Leading the best-dressed pack was Teyana Taylor, who continues her flawless awards season run.
Her custom Thom Browne gown, featuring a sculpted silk bodice and a heavily embellished mermaid skirt, was pure red carpet magic.
The intricate detailing shimmered under the lights, while her diamond pieces from Tiffany & Co. added just the right amount of sparkle.
In one of the night’s sweetest moments, her daughter Rue Rose Shumpert stepped in to help fix her dramatic train.
Wunmi Mosaku also delivered a standout moment in a striking crimson Louis Vuitton gown.
The bold colour and flowing silhouette framed her beautifully, while her matching shoulder wrap added extra drama. She has mastered maternity red carpet dressing this season, proving that elegance and comfort can exist in the same breath.
Old Hollywood glamour came alive through Chase Sui Wonders, who wore a Miss Sohee Couture gown with sculpted cups and delicate floral shimmer. Her slicked-back waves and understated jewellery perfectly honoured the theme.
Similarly, Chase Infiniti made a bold artistic statement in a custom Louis Vuitton creation inspired by Josephine Baker. The nude-toned knit gown and beaded headpiece created a striking silhouette that felt both modern and nostalgic.
Classic glamour was also embraced by Jayme Lawson, whose flowing cream Zuhair Murad gown and sleek updo channelled vintage elegance, while Sofia Carson stunned in a dramatic black Elie Saab strapless dress that captured the essence of timeless Hollywood sophistication.
Meanwhile, Viola Davis looked nothing short of regal in a shimmering custom Gucci gown, her emerald pendant necklace adding a rich finishing touch.
But not every star got it right.
Patrick Ball attempted to push boundaries in Thom Browne, but the messy tie, kilt-inspired skirt and mismatched socks created a look that felt more confusing than cutting-edge.
Emma Stone, usually a red carpet favourite, missed the mark in a lavender Louis Vuitton ensemble that felt ill-fitting and overly casual for such a glamorous occasion.
Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton.
Image: X / @UnaiQuijada
Odessa A’zion also struggled with her Armani Privé jumpsuit, which featured layers of colourful fringe that overwhelmed her frame. While her hair was flawless, the outfit itself lacked cohesion.
Sarah Pidgeon’s pink Balenciaga gown, with its unusually low waistline, distorted her proportions and failed to deliver the drama it promised.
Even Yerin Ha, who took a brave risk in Balenciaga separates, couldn’t quite make the shaggy textured top work on the red carpet.
Beyond the fashion, the night also celebrated major acting achievements.
The cast of “Sinners” dominated, with the film winning Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, while its leading man, Michael B. Jordan, took home Outstanding Actor in a Leading Role.
On the television side, “The Pitt” earned Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series, while Keri Russell won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for “The Diplomat”.
Michelle Williams was honoured for her powerful performance in “Dying for Sex”, and Jessie Buckley earned Outstanding Female Actor in a Leading Role for “Hamnet”, further cementing her reputation as one of the most compelling performers of her generation.
In the end, the 2026 Actor Awards proved that while trophies recognise talent, the red carpet remains the ultimate stage for personal expression.
Some stars embraced the theme and delivered unforgettable moments, while others reminded us that fashion risks don’t always pay off.