The announcement of the 2025 Oscar nominations has left many in Hollywood and beyond scratching their heads. Hosted by Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott, the event revealed a mix of anticipated contenders and shocking exclusions. While some expected names like Demi Moore and Adrien Brody made the list, notable figures such as Selena Gomez and Nicole Kidman were notably absent. This article delves into the biggest snubs, highlighting performances that deserved recognition but fell short.

Unveiling the Notable Absences

In the heart of the awards season, several standout performances were overlooked by the Academy. Nicole Kidman's portrayal of Romy Mathis in Babygirl, Pamela Anderson’s vulnerable role as Shelly in The Last Showgirl, and Jamie Lee Curtis’ transformative performance as Annette in the same film all garnered accolades elsewhere but missed out on Oscar nods. Marianne Jean-Baptiste’s biting performance in Hard Truths and Angelina Jolie’s dramatic turn as Maria Callas in Maria also failed to make the cut. Danielle Deadwyler, Clarence Maclin, and Selena Gomez similarly faced disappointment, despite critical acclaim and previous award recognitions. Adam Pearson, Denzel Washington, Jonathan Bailey, Amy Adams, Daniel Craig, and even Disney’s Moana 2 found themselves outside the prestigious circle. Lastly, the documentary Will & Harper and its accompanying song did not secure nominations either.

Each of these omissions underscores the competitive nature of the Oscars and the sometimes unpredictable choices made by the Academy voters. The year was marked by an abundance of talent, making it challenging for every deserving performance to receive its due recognition.

Reflections on the Snubs

From a journalist’s perspective, the 2025 Oscar snubs highlight the often arbitrary nature of award ceremonies. Despite the rigorous selection process, many exceptional performances remain unrecognized. This year, the Academy faced criticism for overlooking veteran actors like Nicole Kidman and newcomers like Danielle Deadwyler. It raises questions about the criteria used to evaluate performances and the influence of public opinion versus industry standards.

Ultimately, while the Oscars aim to celebrate the best in cinema, they also serve as a reminder that artistic excellence is subjective. For audiences and critics alike, the true value lies in appreciating the diverse range of talent showcased throughout the year, regardless of whether it receives an official nod. As we move forward, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate the contributions of all artists, ensuring that their efforts are not overshadowed by the spotlight of major awards.