Oscar 2026 Predictions: ‘Wicked: For Good’ Influences Standings

The upcoming 2026 Oscars predictions are heavily influenced by Universal’s “Wicked: For Good,” the sequel to the popular adaptation of the Broadway musical. Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this film builds on the success of its predecessor, which earned ten Academy Award nominations and won two Oscars.

Wicked: For Good’s Oscar Potential

“Wicked: For Good” is generating buzz as it showcases more intense performances from its leads. Both Erivo and Grande are anticipated to receive nominations in the same categories as last year, potentially marking them as the seventh and eighth performers to receive multiple acting nominations for the same role across different years.

Historical Context

• Sylvester Stallone for “Rocky” (1976) and “Creed” (2015)
• Paul Newman for “The Hustler” (1961) and “The Color of Money” (1986)
• Cate Blanchett for “Elizabeth” (1998) and “Elizabeth: The Golden Age” (2007)
• Al Pacino for “The Godfather” (1972) and “The Godfather Part II” (1974)
• Peter O’Toole for “Becket” (1974) and “The Lion in Winter” (1968)
• Bing Crosby for “Going My Way” (1944) and “The Bells of St. Mary’s” (1945)

This year, Erivo faces tough competition for Best Actress from performers like Jessie Buckley and Renate Reinsve. In contrast, Grande may emerge as the frontrunner for Best Supporting Actress, given her remarkable performances in both films.

Other Notable Films in Competition

As Oscar season approaches, several films will vie for top honors:

• Best Picture Frontrunners:
  • “One Battle After Another”
  • “Hamnet”
  • “Sinners”
  • “Sentimental Value”
  • “Frankenstein”
  • “Marty Supreme”
  • “Jay Kelly”
  • “Wicked: For Good”
  • “Bugonia”
  • “It Was Just An Accident”
• Best Director Frontrunners:
  • Paul Thomas Anderson for “One Battle After Another”
  • Chloé Zhao for “Hamnet”
  • Ryan Coogler for “Sinners”
  • Joachim Trier for “Sentimental Value”
  • Guillermo del Toro for “Frankenstein”
  • Jon M. Chu for “Wicked: For Good”

Oscar Season Highlights

The buzz around “Wicked: For Good” adds to the excitement as the Academy’s Governors Awards approach. Each film’s promotional strategies may heavily influence voter perceptions. The Oscars are set to be an exciting competition in 2026, with “Wicked: For Good” being a significant contender.