SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Jacob Elordi attends the 31st Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 04, 2026 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
The Golden Globes, often heralded as Hollywood’s most festive gathering, are set to unfold under a cloud of political tension and industry uncertainty. As the 83rd edition of the awards approaches, the mood is anything but celebratory. Hollywood is grappling with a lackluster box office performance and the looming acquisition of Warner Bros., one of its most iconic studios, by streaming giant Netflix.
This year’s ceremony, to be held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, is not just about the glitz and glamour. Many attendees are expected to be preoccupied with current events, including the recent U.S. involvement in Venezuela and the tragic shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis. Despite these somber undertones, the Golden Globes aim to prioritize entertainment over politics, a sentiment echoed by host Nikki Glaser.
Australian Talent in the Spotlight
Amidst the global tensions, Australian actors are making a significant impact at this year’s Golden Globes. Jacob Elordi is a double nominee, recognized for his performances in Frankenstein and The Narrow Road to the Deep North. Meanwhile, Rose Byrne emerges as a frontrunner, favored to win for her role in the musical/comedy If I Had Legs I’d Kick You.
Other Australian nominees include Sarah Snook for All Her Fault, Joel Edgerton for Train Dreams, and Nick Cave for Best Original Song. Their nominations highlight the growing influence of Australian talent in Hollywood.
Industry Shifts and Warner Bros. Acquisition
The backdrop of this year’s Golden Globes is the potential acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix, a deal valued at $82.7 billion. This merger, pending regulatory approval, has sparked concerns among theater owners who fear it could negatively impact the global cinema landscape. Paramount Skydance is also vying for Warner Bros., adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Should Warner Bros. secure top awards for films like One Battle After Another and Sinners, it would be a significant victory for the studio amidst its uncertain future. The former, an Oscar favorite, leads with nine nominations and has been sweeping awards season thus far.
Predictions and Potential Highlights
In the acting categories, Timothée Chalamet is poised to win his first Golden Globe for Marty Supreme, while Rose Byrne is the top contender in her category. The drama categories are fiercely competitive, with Jessie Buckley and Wagner Moura leading their respective fields.
Host Nikki Glaser, known for her sharp wit, promises a night of humor targeting Hollywood’s elite. Her remarks are expected to add levity to an otherwise tense evening. Glaser has teased her plans to roast A-listers, including Leonardo DiCaprio, with her signature comedic style.
Impact of the Globes on Awards Season
While the Golden Globes do not directly influence the Oscars, a memorable acceptance speech can significantly boost a nominee’s campaign. Last year, Demi Moore’s heartfelt speech for The Substance was a standout moment, though the Oscars saw a different winner.
This year, all eyes are on Iranian director Jafar Panahi, whose film It Was Just an Accident is up for multiple awards. Panahi’s work, often produced under challenging conditions, highlights the intersection of art and political resistance.
Television and Podcast Nominees
In the realm of television, HBO Max’s The White Lotus leads with six nominations, while Netflix’s Adolescence follows closely. Seth Rogen’s The Studio, a satirical take on Hollywood, is also in the running and could see art imitating life with its nominations.
The podcast category features popular shows like Armchair Expert and SmartLess, showcasing the growing influence of digital media in the entertainment industry.
As the Golden Globes unfold, the event promises a blend of celebration and reflection, capturing the complexities of an industry in transition. The outcomes of the night could set the tone for the rest of the awards season, as Hollywood navigates its evolving landscape.
