Winning an Oscar is often framed as the ultimate validation in Hollywood, but plenty of stars who shaped eras, carried franchises, and delivered unforgettable performances have somehow been left empty-handed. From repeated snubs to near-miss nominations, their careers are proof that awards don’t always reflect impact or legacy. Here are 13 major Hollywood names whose trophy shelves are still missing that one golden statue.
Amy Adams
With six Oscar nominations for standout performances in “Junebug,” “Doubt,” “The Fighter,” “The Master,” “American Hustle,” and “Vice,” Amy Adams has built a remarkable career. Her consistently powerful work makes her one of the most overdue actors for an Academy Award.
Ralph Fiennes
Ralph Fiennes, known for his incredible range in films like “Schindler’s List,” “The English Patient,” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” has been nominated for three Oscars throughout his career. In the 2025 Oscars, Fiennes was extremely close to winning his first Academy Award for his impeccable performance as Cardinal Lawrence in “Conclave,” but the trophy was snatched away by Adrien Brody for his role in “The Brutalist.”
Naomi Watts
British actress Naomi Watts has earned two Oscar nominations for her powerful turns in “21 Grams” and “The Impossible,” both showcasing her emotional depth and range. Despite winning over 40 awards throughout her career, the Academy’s top honor continues to elude her—an oversight considering the consistent strength of her performances across genres.
Ian McKellen
Ian McKellen may be widely recognized for his iconic roles in “The Lord of the Rings” and “X-Men” franchises, but his career spans decades of acclaimed stage and screen work. A Tony winner in 1981 and a two-time Oscar nominee, McKellen has delivered masterful performances that deserved more than just nominations. The absence of an Academy Award remains one of the most glaring omissions in Oscar history.
Sigourney Weaver
Sigourney Weaver has built an extraordinary career with unforgettable roles in “Aliens,” “Ghostbusters,” and “The Ice Storm,” becoming one of the most versatile and respected actresses of her generation. Despite three Oscar nominations—two in the same year for “Gorillas in the Mist” and “Working Girl,” and one for “Aliens”—the Academy has never awarded her a win.
Timothée Chalamet
After making history as the youngest Best Actor nominee in nearly 80 years for “Call Me by Your Name,” Timothée Chalamet continues to be the one that got away for the Academy. Fans still feel the sting of last year’s snub for the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown” where his transformative, vocals-first performance was ultimately overlooked. Now, he’s back with a vengeance in “Marty Supreme,” channeling a relentless intensity as a 1950s ping-pong pro that many believe will finally secure him the golden statue.
Willem Dafoe
Willem Dafoe is one of the most daring and committed actors working today, with standout performances in films like “Platoon” and “The Last Temptation of Christ.” Despite four Oscar nominations, he has yet to take home the statuette.
John Malkovich
Known for his distinctive and versatile performances, John Malkovich has appeared in a wide range of memorable films, including a unique turn playing himself in “Being John Malkovich.” Despite two Oscar nominations over his long career, the actor has yet to secure a win.
Johnny Depp
Johnny Depp has delivered unforgettable performances in films ranging from “Platoon” to “Edward Scissorhands.” His Oscar nominations arrived later for “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl,” “Finding Neverland,” and “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” but despite these standout roles, he has yet to win the coveted award.
Bill Murray
Considered one of the greatest comedic actors of all time, Bill Murray has starred in iconic films such as “Ghostbusters,” “Rushmore,” “Hyde Park on Hudson,” “Stripes,” “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou,” and “Groundhog Day.” Despite his extensive and beloved body of work, his sole Oscar nomination came for the critically acclaimed “Lost in Translation.”
Glenn Close
Glenn Close boasts a career filled with powerhouse performances and eight Oscar nominations to show for it. Yet despite standout roles in films like “The Big Chill,” “Fatal Attraction,” and “Hillbilly Elegy,” the statuette has remained just out of reach.
Ethan Hawke
Ethan Hawke has built an impressive and versatile career, with standout work in everything from “Alive” to the “Before” trilogy. His powerful turn in “Training Day” remains a highlight, but despite four Oscar nominations—two for acting and two for writing—he has yet to take home the gold.
Annette Bening
Annette Bening is one of Hollywood’s most respected talents, known for her commanding presence and nuanced performances. With five Oscar nominations under her belt, her consistent excellence makes her continued absence from the winners’ circle all the more surprising.