Awards Season Highlights: BAFTA and Oscar Nominations

Emma Stone’s performance in ‘Bugonia’ has earned her a seventh BAFTA nomination and a Best Actress nod at the 2026 Oscars, scheduled for March. The film, directed by her frequent collaborator Yorgos Lanthimos, has been praised for its innovative storytelling and Stone’s transformative portrayal of a complex protagonist. At the 2026 BAFTAs, held on February 22 in London, Stone arrived in a sleek black Louis Vuitton dress, accessorized with diamond jewelry, reinforcing her reputation as a red carpet icon. Her stylist, Petra Flannery, curated a look that balanced elegance with modern edge, drawing comparisons to her previous award-winning appearances.

Stone’s BAFTA nomination for ‘Bugonia’ follows her wins for ‘La La Land’ (2017) and ‘Poor Things’ (2024), underscoring her ability to excel in both musical and dramatic roles. Industry analysts note that her consistent recognition at major awards ceremonies reflects not only her acting prowess but also her strategic choice of roles that challenge conventional narratives. As the Oscars approach, speculation is rife about whether Stone will secure her third Academy Award, a feat that would place her among the most decorated actresses of her generation.

Upcoming Projects: ‘Bugonia’ and Beyond

Beyond ‘Bugonia’, Emma Stone’s slate of upcoming projects includes highly anticipated sequels and new collaborations. She is set to reprise her role as Cruella de Vil in the ‘Cruella’ sequel, a project she is also executive producing. The first film, released in 2021, was a commercial and critical success, grossing over $233 million worldwide and earning Stone praise for her portrayal of the iconic Disney villain. While plot details for the sequel remain under wraps, insiders suggest it will delve deeper into Cruella’s origins and her rivalry with the fashion world.

In addition to the ‘Cruella’ sequel, Stone is attached to several other projects, including a collaboration with her husband, Dave McCary, on an untitled Universal Pictures film. Her production company, Fruit Tree, continues to develop independent films, with Stone taking on both acting and producing roles. This diversification of her portfolio—spanning blockbusters, indie films, and television—highlights her commitment to storytelling across genres and platforms.

Public Image and Speculations: Addressing the Rumors

Emma Stone’s public appearances in 2026 have not been without controversy. Her youthful appearance at the Golden Globes and BAFTAs sparked widespread speculation about cosmetic enhancements, a topic that has followed her since her dramatic hair transformation for ‘Bugonia’. Stone, who shaved her head for the role, has openly discussed the emotional and physical demands of her recent projects, noting that her changing looks are often tied to her characters rather than personal vanity.

Despite the rumors, Stone has maintained a relatively private personal life, sharing little about her marriage to Dave McCary or their young daughter, Louise. This balance between public visibility and personal privacy has endeared her to fans, who appreciate her focus on her craft over celebrity culture. Industry observers note that Stone’s ability to navigate public scrutiny while delivering award-worthy performances is a testament to her professionalism and resilience.

Background and Career Context: From ‘Easy A’ to ‘Bugonia’

Emma Stone’s career trajectory is a study in versatility and strategic risk-taking. She first gained widespread recognition for her role in the 2010 comedy ‘Easy A’, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Her breakthrough continued with critically acclaimed performances in ‘The Help’ (2011), ‘Birdman’ (2014), and ‘La La Land’ (2016), the latter of which won her an Oscar for Best Actress. Stone’s collaboration with director Yorgos Lanthimos began with ‘The Favourite’ (2018) and has since become one of the most fruitful partnerships in contemporary cinema, culminating in her recent work on ‘Poor Things’ and ‘Bugonia’.

Beyond acting, Stone has ventured into producing, founding Fruit Tree to support independent filmmakers. Her production credits include ‘When You Finish Saving the World’ (2022) and ‘A Real Pain’ (2024), both of which premiered to positive reviews. This expansion into producing reflects her desire to shape narratives both in front of and behind the camera, a rarity among actors of her stature.

What’s Next: Industry Expectations and Public Anticipation

As Emma Stone prepares for the 2026 Oscars, industry watchers are already looking ahead to her next projects. The ‘Cruella’ sequel is expected to begin production later this year, with Stone’s involvement as both star and producer generating significant buzz. Her collaboration with Lanthimos on ‘Bugonia’ has also fueled speculation about future partnerships, with rumors circulating about a potential fifth project between the two.

Stone’s ability to straddle commercial success and artistic integrity positions her as a unique figure in Hollywood. Whether she’s donning avant-garde fashion on the red carpet or immersing herself in challenging roles, she continues to redefine what it means to be a leading actress in the 21st century. As the Oscars approach, all eyes will be on Stone—not just for the awards she might win, but for the projects she chooses to tackle next.

Pro Tips: Navigating Awards Season Like Emma Stone

Choose Roles Wisely: Stone’s career is marked by her selection of diverse and challenging roles. Aspiring actors should prioritize projects that push their boundaries and align with their artistic vision.
Build Strong Collaborations: Her repeated work with directors like Yorgos Lanthimos and Damien Chazelle highlights the value of fostering creative partnerships that yield consistent, high-quality results.
Balance Public and Private Life: Stone’s ability to maintain privacy while engaging with the public offers a blueprint for managing fame without sacrificing personal well-being.
Embrace Fashion as a Tool: Her red carpet appearances demonstrate how fashion can amplify an actor’s public image and complement their professional narrative.
Diversify Your Portfolio: By acting, producing, and supporting independent films, Stone exemplifies how diversification can lead to long-term success and creative fulfillment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emma Stone

How many Oscars has Emma Stone won?Emma Stone has won two Academy Awards: Best Actress for ‘La La Land’ (2017) and ‘Poor Things’ (2024). She is nominated for a third Oscar in 2026 for her role in ‘Bugonia’.
What is Emma Stone’s production company?Emma Stone founded Fruit Tree, a production company focused on developing independent films and supporting emerging filmmakers.
Who is Emma Stone married to?Emma Stone is married to Dave McCary, a writer and comedian known for his work on ‘Saturday Night Live’.
What is Emma Stone’s next project?Stone is set to star in and executive produce the ‘Cruella’ sequel, with production expected to begin in late 2026.
Why did Emma Stone shave her head?Stone shaved her head for her role in ‘Bugonia’, a decision she described as both emotionally and physically transformative.

Conclusion

Emma Stone’s 2026 awards season journey is a masterclass in artistic evolution and public engagement. From her acclaimed performance in ‘Bugonia’ to her bold fashion statements and strategic career moves, Stone continues to set the standard for modern Hollywood stardom. As she prepares for the Oscars and beyond, her ability to balance critical acclaim with commercial success ensures that her influence on the industry—and her audience—will endure for years to come.