©Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection 
The Academy Awards are often regarded as the pinnacle of achievement in the film industry, but over the years, numerous talented actors have been overlooked for the coveted Oscar statue. Oscar snubs remain a contentious topic among film lovers and industry professionals alike. While the Academy’s choices can often be puzzling, the enduring talent of these stars continues to shine brightly, reminding us that, sometimes, the gold statue isn’t the only measure of greatness. Each of these performances has left an indelible mark on cinema, showcasing the diverse and profound talent present in the industry. Here are ten stars who many believe were robbed of the gold, highlighting their incredible performances and the unfortunate snubs that followed.
Leonardo DiCaprio (For “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape”)
Performance: DiCaprio played Arnie Grape, a mentally challenged teenager, in this 1993 drama. His portrayal was raw, tender, and heartbreakingly real, earning him widespread acclaim at just 19 years old.
Snub Details: Although DiCaprio received his first Oscar nomination for this role, he lost to Tommy Lee Jones for “The Fugitive.” Many critics argued that DiCaprio’s performance was a standout and should have been recognized as a win.ony empty-handed.
Amy Adams (For “Arrival”)
Performance: In 2016’s “Arrival,” Adams portrayed linguist Louise Banks, who is recruited to communicate with extraterrestrial beings. Her nuanced performance captured the complexities of grief, hope, and connection.
Snub Details: Adams was nominated for Best Actress but lost to Emma Stone for “La La Land.” Many fans and critics expressed disbelief, arguing that Adams delivered one of her career-best performances, worthy of the Oscar.
Jim Carrey (For “The Truman Show”)
Performance: Carrey’s dramatic role in 1998’s “The Truman Show” showcased his range beyond comedy. He played Truman Burbank, a man unaware that his life is a reality TV show, infusing the character with both humor and existential dread.
Snub Details: Despite receiving critical praise and a nomination, Carrey lost to Roberto Benigni for “Life is Beautiful.” His powerful performance remains a highlight of his career, leading many to view the snub as a significant oversight.
Glenn Close (For “The Wife”)
Performance: Close’s role as Joan Castleman in “The Wife” (2017) explores the complexities of a woman who has sacrificed her own literary career for her husband’s success. Her performance was a masterclass in restraint and emotional depth.
Snub Details: Close was nominated for Best Actress but lost to Olivia Colman for “The Favourite.” This marked another loss for Close, extending her record for the most nominations without a win, leaving many fans and critics frustrated.
Edward Norton (For “American History X”)
Performance: In 1998’s “American History X,” Norton portrayed Derek Vinyard, a former neo-Nazi who seeks redemption. His intense transformation and emotional range were both chilling and compelling.
Snub Details: Norton’s performance earned him an Oscar nomination, but he lost to Roberto Benigni for “Life is Beautiful.” Many believe Norton’s portrayal was far more impactful, contributing to ongoing discussions about the Academy’s choices.
Michelle Pfeiffer (For “The Fabulous Baker Boys”)
Performance: Pfeiffer played a struggling lounge singer in 1989’s “The Fabulous Baker Boys.” Her performance was both sultry and vulnerable, earning her widespread acclaim and a memorable spot in cinematic history.
Snub Details: Despite her standout performance, Pfeiffer lost to Jessica Tandy for “Driving Miss Daisy.” Many in the industry felt she was more deserving, making her snub one of the most discussed in Oscar history.
Robin Williams (For “Dead Poets Society”)
Performance: Williams portrayed John Keating, an inspiring English teacher, in 1989’s “Dead Poets Society.” His passionate performance encouraged students to embrace poetry and challenge conformity, resonating deeply with audiences.
Snub Details: While Williams won the Oscar for “Good Will Hunting” in 1998, many felt he deserved recognition for “Dead Poets Society” as well. His snub during that earlier nomination year is often cited in conversations about overlooked talent.
Cicely Tyson (For “Sounder”)
Performance: In the 1972 film “Sounder,” Tyson delivered a powerful portrayal of a mother struggling to hold her family together during tough times. Her performance was both poignant and groundbreaking.
Snub Details: Tyson received an Oscar nomination but lost to Liza Minnelli for “Cabaret.” This loss sparked conversations about the representation of Black actresses and the roles deemed Oscar-worthy.
Toni Collette (For “Hereditary”)
Performance: Collette’s performance in 2018’s “Hereditary” was a masterclass in horror acting. She portrayed Annie Graham, a mother grappling with grief and family trauma, delivering a haunting and unforgettable performance.
Snub Details: Despite rave reviews and a cult following, Collette was completely overlooked during the Oscar nominations. Her absence from the list shocked horror fans and critics alike, highlighting the genre’s ongoing struggles for recognition.
Daniel Day-Lewis (For “Gangs of New York”)
Performance: Day-Lewis delivered a fierce and charismatic performance as Bill the Butcher in Martin Scorsese’s “Gangs of New York” (2002). His portrayal was both terrifying and captivating, showcasing his unparalleled commitment to the role.
Snub Details: Although Day-Lewis ultimately won an Oscar for “Lincoln,” many believed his work in “Gangs of New York” deserved recognition. He lost the Best Actor award to Adrien Brody for “The Pianist,” a decision that sparked debates about the Academy’s voting patterns.
