Outstanding Supporting Performance
The Outstanding Supporting Performance category highlights actors whose impactful performances elevated their films, adding depth and complexity to their stories. These nominees have brought unforgettable characters to life, showcasing their exceptional talent and range.
Danielle Deadwyler as Berniece
The Piano Lesson
Danielle Deadwyler portrays Berniece, a strong-willed woman grappling with the weight of her family’s legacy and the burden of a treasured heirloom. Her nuanced performance brings emotional depth and complexity to this iconic role. This is Deadwyler’s third Bolt nomination and her first in this category. She previously won Outstanding Actress in 2023 for Till.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Joyce
Exhibiting Forgiveness
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor delivers a stirring performance as Joyce, a woman confronting her own past while seeking redemption and reconnection with her estranged family. Her portrayal is deeply emotional and profoundly resonant. This is Ellis-Taylor’s fifth Bolt nomination and second in this category. She won Outstanding Supporting Actress in 2022 for King Richard.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Hattie
Nickel Boys
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor delivers a powerful performance as Harriet, a maternal figure and steadfast supporter of Elwood Curtis, whose life is irreparably impacted by the horrors of the Nickel Academy. Harriet’s warmth and unyielding strength serve as a beacon of hope amidst systemic injustice. Ellis-Taylor’s nuanced portrayal adds emotional depth to the narrative, making her role an integral part of the film’s impact. This marks Ellis-Taylor’s fifth Bolt nomination and second in this category. She previously won Outstanding Supporting Actress in 2022 for King Richard.
Brian Tyree Henry as Jason Crutchfield
The Fire Inside
Brian Tyree Henry portrays Jason Crutchfield, the steadfast coach and mentor guiding Claressa Shields in her boxing journey. His performance brings wisdom and warmth, highlighting the deep bond between coach and athlete. This is Henry’s seventh Bolt nomination and first in this category. He previously won Outstanding Supporting Actor in 2023 for Causeway.
Clarence Maclin as Himself
Sing Sing
Clarence Maclin’s performance as himself in Sing Sing is both heartfelt and transformative, offering a deeply personal perspective on redemption through the arts. Maclin’s portrayal captures the hope and humanity at the core of the film. This is Maclin’s second Bolt nomination and first in this category, alongside his nod for Outstanding Breakthrough Performance.
Lashana Lynch as Rita Marley
Bob Marley: One Love
Lashana Lynch captivates as Rita Marley, embodying strength, love, and resilience as the wife and partner of the legendary Bob Marley. Her magnetic performance brings a pivotal figure to life. This is Lynch’s first Bolt nomination and her first in this category.
Zoe Saldaña as Rita Mora Castro
Emilia Pérez
Zoe Saldaña delivers a commanding and layered performance as Rita Mora Castro, a conflicted lawyer entangled in the tumultuous events of Emilia Pérez. In addition to her nomination for Outstanding Original Song for “El Mal” from the same film, this is Saldaña’s 10th Bolt nomination and first in this category. She previously won Outstanding Voice Performance in 2023 for Avatar: The Way of Water.
Jurnee Smollett as Yvonne
We Grown Now
Jurnee Smollett portrays Yvonne, a loving but overburdened mother navigating the challenges of raising a child in urban Chicago. Her understated yet powerful performance captures the heart of the story. This is Smollett’s second Bolt nomination and second in this category. She was previously nominated in 2024 for The Burial.
Denzel Washington as Macrinus
Gladiator II
Denzel Washington brings his legendary presence to Gladiator II as Macrinus, a wise and formidable advisor caught in the political turmoil of the Roman Empire. Washington’s performance adds gravitas and complexity to this epic tale. This is Washington’s 24th Bolt nomination and first in this category. He is a seven-time winner, including five wins for Outstanding Actor for The Hurricane, Training Day, Remember the Titans, Flight, and Fences.
Brandon Wilson as Turner
Nickel Boys
Brandon Wilson delivers a compelling performance as Turner, Elwood’s resilient and resourceful friend in Nickel Boys. Wilson’s nuanced portrayal of Turner’s complexities earned him an additional nomination for Outstanding Breakthrough Performance, marking him as a rising star. This is Wilson’s second Bolt nomination and first in this category.