2025 Oscars: These Are This Year’s First-Time Nominees

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - January 28th 2025, 18:30 GMT+1

Cropped About — About this gallery:

For this list, we’re shining the spotlight on actors and actresses who, for the first time ever, are receiving an Oscar nomination – including the historic first nomination for a transgender performer.

So, which of these incredible nominees are you rooting for to take home the gold? Let us know in the comments – because hey, everyone’s got a favorite!

Cropped Karla Sofía Gascón — Karla Sofía Gascón - Emilia Pérez

Karla Sofía Gascón has taken the cinematic world by storm with her groundbreaking performance in *Emilia Pérez*. Portraying a Mexican cartel leader who undergoes gender-affirming surgery, Gascón's role is as bold as it is transformative. The film, directed by Jacques Audiard, has been lauded for its originality and daring narrative. Gascón's portrayal not only challenges societal norms but also marks a significant milestone as the first openly transgender actress nominated for an Academy Award. Her journey from the underground world of cartels to the glittering lights of the Oscars is nothing short of cinematic magic. Bravo, Gascón, for rewriting the script! | © Why Not Productions

Cropped Mikey Madison — Mikey Madison - Anora

Mikey Madison's star shines brightly in Sean Baker's *Anora*, where she plays a young escort from Brooklyn who impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Madison's portrayal of Anora is a delightful blend of vulnerability and street-smart charm, capturing the essence of a modern-day Cinderella story set against the gritty backdrop of New York City. Her performance has been hailed as a tour de force, bringing depth and nuance to a character navigating love, identity, and societal expectations. With this role, Madison has firmly established herself as a formidable talent in Hollywood's new generation. | © NEON

Cropped Fernanda Torres 1 — Fernanda Torres - I'm Still Here

Fernanda Torres delivers a powerful performance in *I'm Still Here*, portraying Eunice Paiva, a Brazilian lawyer and activist searching for her missing husband during a tumultuous political era. Directed by Walter Salles, the film delves deep into themes of love, loss, and resilience. Torres's portrayal is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, capturing the strength of a woman confronting political oppression while maintaining her family's stability. Her nuanced performance has garnered critical acclaim, earning her a well-deserved spot among this year's Oscar nominees. | © VideoFilmes

Cropped Sebastian Stan — Sebastian Stan - The Apprentice

Sebastian Stan steps into the shoes of a young Donald Trump in *The Apprentice*, offering a captivating glimpse into the early life of the future president. Directed by Ali Abbasi, the film explores Trump's rise in the 1970s New York real estate scene, highlighting his complex relationship with mentor Roy Cohn, portrayed by Jeremy Strong. Stan's performance has been described as both charismatic and unsettling, capturing the ambition and moral ambiguities of his character. This role marks a significant departure from his previous work, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor. | © Tailored Films

Cropped Monica Barbaro — Monica Barbaro - A Complete Unknown

Monica Barbaro stuns in *A Complete Unknown*, a Bob Dylan biopic directed by James Mangold. In this intimate exploration of Dylan's life and loves, Barbaro takes on the role of Joan Baez, Dylan's muse and collaborator. Her performance captures Baez's fiery spirit, sharp intellect, and undeniable charm. The chemistry between Barbaro and Timothée Chalamet, who plays Dylan, has been widely praised, creating an emotional centerpiece for the film. Barbaro's heartfelt portrayal solidifies her as one of the breakout stars of the year. | © Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Ariana Grande — Ariana Grande - Wicked

Ariana Grande makes her Oscar-worthy debut in *Wicked*, directed by Jon M. Chu. Taking on the iconic role of Glinda the Good Witch, Grande brings her Broadway chops and pop-star charisma to the beloved musical adaptation. Her soaring vocals and bubbly performance have enchanted audiences and critics alike, adding a fresh, modern take to a classic character. Grande's turn in *Wicked* is nothing short of magical, proving she has the acting prowess to match her superstar singing career. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Zoe Saldana — Zoe Saldaña - Emilia Pérez

Zoe Saldaña takes on a riveting supporting role in *Emilia Pérez*, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the groundbreaking film. Playing the fierce yet compassionate lawyer defending Karla Sofía Gascón’s character, Saldaña seamlessly embodies a woman torn between duty and empathy. Her scenes pack a powerful punch, blending fierce courtroom intensity with heartfelt personal moments. Saldaña, known for her roles in blockbusters, steps out of her comfort zone in this gritty, character-driven drama, proving she’s just as commanding in indie storytelling as she is in CGI epics. | © Why Not Productions

Cropped Yura Borisov — Yura Borisov - Anora

Yura Borisov brings a magnetic energy to his role in *Anora*, where he plays the enigmatic and morally ambiguous son of a Russian oligarch. Borisov’s character oscillates between privilege and vulnerability, creating a compelling foil to Mikey Madison’s street-smart Anora. His performance feels raw and unpredictable, leaving audiences on edge in every scene he inhabits. Borisov’s ability to balance charm with menace has made him one of the most talked-about newcomers this awards season. | © NEON

Cropped Kieran Culkin — Kieran Culkin - A Real Pain

Kieran Culkin lights up the screen in *A Real Pain*, a dark comedy about two cousins (played by Culkin and Jerrod Carmichael) navigating grief while exploring their Jewish heritage in Poland. Culkin’s razor-sharp wit and impeccable timing inject humor into the film’s weightier themes. Yet, it’s his ability to slip seamlessly into moments of vulnerability that leaves a lasting impact. Culkin’s performance is a poignant reminder of his range as an actor, and it’s no wonder this role has finally earned him Oscar attention. | © A24

Cropped Jeremy Strong — Jeremy Strong - The Apprentice

Jeremy Strong delivers a tour de force performance in *The Apprentice*, portraying the infamous Roy Cohn, mentor to a young Donald Trump. Strong's interpretation of the larger-than-life character is both magnetic and chilling, balancing ruthless ambition with flashes of humanity. Sharing intense screen moments with Sebastian Stan, Strong becomes the film’s anchor, embodying the cunning manipulator who helped shape a future president. It’s a performance filled with quiet menace and explosive moments, showcasing Strong’s dedication to his craft. | © Tailored Films

Cropped Isabella Rossellini — Isabella Rossellini - Conclave

In *Conclave*, Isabella Rossellini steps into the world of Vatican intrigue, portraying the first female contender for the papacy in a thriller packed with secrets and power plays. Directed by Edward Berger, the film centers on the political and spiritual struggles within the Catholic Church, and Rossellini commands attention with her regal presence and deeply empathetic performance. Her character radiates wisdom and inner strength, making her a standout in a male-dominated setting. Rossellini’s nuanced portrayal is both thought-provoking and utterly captivating. | © House Productions

Cropped Guy Pearce — Guy Pearce - The Brutalist

Guy Pearce delivers a hauntingly complex performance in *The Brutalist*, portraying an architect whose idealistic dreams clash with harsh political realities. The film, directed by Brady Corbet, chronicles the journey of a European refugee building a life in post-war America, and Pearce’s portrayal captures the raw struggle between artistic ambition and the sacrifices of assimilation. His quiet intensity and ability to convey deep emotional turmoil without uttering a word make this one of his career-defining roles. Pearce builds a character as intricate and lasting as the architecture he dreams of designing. | © Adventure Line Productions

Cropped Demi Moore — Demi Moore - The Substance

Demi Moore makes a triumphant return to the silver screen in *The Substance*. She portrays Elizabeth Sparkle, a former star now hosting a fitness show, who turns to a black-market drug in a desperate attempt to regain her youth. This decision leads to unexpected and horrifying consequences. Moore's performance has garnered critical acclaim and struck a cord with audiences worldwide. | © Focus Features

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The 2025 Oscars are upon us, and while the spotlight often falls on seasoned Hollywood veterans, this year’s first-time nominees are stealing the show. From breakthrough performances that redefined genres to bold choices that pushed cinematic boundaries, these fresh faces (and some long-overdue nods) are proof that the Academy isn’t afraid to embrace new talent. Whether it’s captivating leads, scene-stealing supporting roles, or daring creative risks, these nominees have earned their place among the industry’s best. Let’s take a closer look at the trailblazers making their Oscar debut this year – because every star has their first shining moment.