Jessie Buckley poised to make Oscar history as Ireland's first Best Actress winner
Jessie Buckley is the clear favourite to win Best Actress at the 2026 Academy Awards. Prediction markets place her odds at an overwhelming 97.8%. If she takes home the prize, she will become the first Irish winner in the category—and only the third Irish woman ever nominated for the award.
Buckley's acclaimed performance in Hamnet has earned her widespread praise. Directed by Chloé Zhao, the film follows William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes as they grieve the loss of their son. Buckley plays Agnes, a role that has cemented her reputation as one of the finest actors of her generation. The film itself has received eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.
Born into a creative Kerry family with deep musical roots, Buckley has always stood out for her raw talent. She is also the great-granddaughter of Madge Clifford, a prominent figure in Irish republican history. Beyond her lineage, she is known for her down-to-earth demeanour, often speaking with honesty and humility in interviews. To prepare for intense roles, Buckley turns to nature. For *Hamnet*, she immersed herself in freezing swims at Hampstead Heath, a method she finds grounding. Her connection to the natural world reflects her upbringing in Ireland's rugged landscapes. Back in her hometown, Killarney, her former primary school has honoured her journey. Teachers there have built a timeline of her life, using her story to motivate students. The display highlights her rise from a small-town girl to an Oscar-contending star.
A win for Buckley would mark a historic moment for Irish cinema. She has already broken barriers as one of only three Irish women ever nominated in the Best Actress category. Whether she secures the award or not, her performance in Hamnet has already left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.
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