Timothée Chalamet continues to chase a coveted Academy Award, despite facing multiple setbacks at major awards shows over the years. Most recently, he missed out on the Best Actor Oscar for his role in A Complete Unknown, although he did earn a SAG Award recognition for the same performance. His journey reflects a persistent effort marked by frequent near misses in ceremonies including the Oscars, Golden Globes, and BAFTAs.
Chalamet’s ongoing Oscar pursuit has sparked varied reactions within the industry, with some perceiving his open desire to win as overly eager. A recent feature in Vogue highlighted the actor’s unabashed approach to competing for top honors, revealing his unwillingness to temper his ambitions or hide the frustration of losing. His honesty about the emotional toll of such experiences resonates with many, yet also raises questions about humility in a competitive environment.
Chalamet’s Candid Take on Award Show Disappointments
Chalamet has publicly addressed the common disappointment that follows awards seasons, acknowledging the emotional realities faced by nominees who do not win. In his words, shared during the Vogue interview, frustrations after losing are far from concealed:
“If there’s five people at an awards show, and four people go home losing, you don’t think those four people are at the restaurant like, ‘Damn, we didn’t win?’” – Timothée Chalamet, actor
“I’ve been around some deeply generous, no-ego actors, and maybe some of them are going, ‘That was fun.’ But I know for a fact a lot of them are going, ‘F*ck!’” – Timothée Chalamet, actor
Despite criticism from peers who find his approach overly assertive, Chalamet remains unapologetic about his ambition:
“People can call me a try-hard, and they can say whatever the f*ck, but I’m the one actually doing it here.” – Timothée Chalamet, actor
This willingness to openly display his competitive spirit contrasts with the typically modest demeanor expected in Hollywood’s awards culture, where acceptance of losses often comes with grace and humility.
Reflections on Past Awards and Public Reaction
Chalamet has also reflected humorously on the awkward moments tied to losing an award, such as writing speeches he never delivers. During a SiriusXM interview, he described the surreal experience of tearing up an unused victory speech as both amusing and self-deprecating:
“You think to yourself, ‘You narcissistic arrogant prick. On what planet did you think you were gonna use this?'” – Timothée Chalamet, actor
While the high frequency of losing at awards events is common for many actors, Chalamet’s vocal frustration sets him apart. Most in the industry learn to balance disappointment with gratitude for the nomination itself, a sensibility that some suggest he has yet to fully embrace. This divide in approach underscores broader tensions about competitiveness and professionalism in the awards circuit.
Upcoming Projects and Continued Oscar Ambitions
Looking ahead, Chalamet’s forthcoming film Marty Supreme positions him again as a strong contender for an Oscar Best Actor nomination in the next awards season. His stated goal remains clear, seeking an Oscar win as a defining milestone of his career. During his SAG acceptance speech earlier this year, Chalamet articulated this aim as a “pursuit of victory,” a phrase he continues to emphasize. However, he also recognizes the risks involved in openly expressing such ambitions:
“You don’t want to risk being too declarative,” – Timothée Chalamet, actor
Yet, his public statements often verge on definitiveness, which may alienate peers who share similar aspirations but maintain more reserved attitudes. This dynamic suggests a need for Chalamet to navigate the delicate social landscape of awards season competition more tactfully, balancing personal drive with awareness of others’ ambitions.
Artistic Growth as a Parallel Goal Beyond Awards
Beyond the pursuit of trophies, Chalamet acknowledges the importance of artistic challenge and meaningful work. He has expressed a desire not to look back on his career with indifference but to create projects that provoke strong reactions—whether positive or negative. In the Vogue interview, he stated:
“I also don’t want to look back on life and things I’ve put out and go, ‘Oh, little old me. Hey, see the movie if you want. It is what it is,'” – Timothée Chalamet, actor
“No. At worst, you’ve rubbed people the wrong way. And at best, someone will get pulled in and go, ‘Hey, this guy really thinks this thing’s worthy.’” – Timothée Chalamet, actor
This perspective reflects a broader understanding of success that transcends awards, focusing on personal fulfillment and creative risk-taking. For Chalamet, striving to grow as an artist may ultimately prove more rewarding than merely securing an Oscar.
Future Opportunities and the Path Ahead
If Chalamet does not secure an Oscar for Marty Supreme, several opportunities remain to advance his career and possibly earn future accolades. Films such as Dune: Part Three and a motocross project with director James Mangold are already in development, among others not yet announced. These ventures provide platforms for Chalamet to refine his craft and possibly achieve the recognition he seeks.
Ultimately, while the intense focus on awards is understandable, a lasting impact in film often depends on humility and artistic growth. Finding balance between ambition and modesty may be essential for Chalamet as he navigates the challenges of the awards circuit and his evolving career.
