In a night that marked both celebration and surprise at the 32nd Actor Awards, Michael B. Jordan claimed one of the most significant accolades of his career, winning Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his dual portrayal in Sinners, while Hollywood legend Harrison Ford received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award during Sunday’s ceremony in Los Angeles.
The Actor Awards, formerly known as the Screen Actors Guild Awards, were presented on March 1 at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall and streamed live on Netflix. The annual event, a key precursor to the Oscars, drew top talent from film and television and was hosted once again by Kristen Bell.
Jordan’s performance in Sinners — in which he plays twin brothers in a genre-blending vampire epic — earned widespread acclaim throughout awards season, but his victory at the Actor Awards stood out as a major moment amid stiff competition. After his name was announced, Jordan was met with a standing ovation from the audience. The win adds to a successful season that has included nominations at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards and NAACP Image Awards, where Sinners also took home the Outstanding Ensemble Cast prize.
Jordan’s victory was also seen as a potential indicator ahead of the Academy Awards, which are scheduled for mid-March. Sinners — buoyed by its Actor Awards success, especially in the lead acting category and ensemble recognition — is now widely viewed as a strong contender in the Oscar race.
While Sinners enjoyed a strong night, the ceremony also honoured acting legends and rising stars across genres. Among the highlights was the attendance of Harrison Ford, who was celebrated with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his enduring contribution to cinema. Ford’s award was presented by fellow actor Woody Harrelson, who spoke warmly of the 83-year-old icon’s long career. Ford, visibly moved during his acceptance speech, described the recognition as “very encouraging,” acknowledging his fortunate journey in an industry defined by competition and evolution.
The broader slate of winners reflected a mix of dramatic and comedic achievements. Jessie Buckley secured the Outstanding Female Actor in a Leading Role award for Hamnet, and television titles such as The Studio and The Pitt also won ensemble and individual honours.
For Jordan, the Actor Awards mark not only a personal triumph but a defining moment in a career that has steadily built toward leading dramatic roles. For Ford, the evening provided a poignant tribute to decades of iconic performances. As awards season continues toward Hollywood’s biggest night, the outcomes in Los Angeles over the weekend will undoubtedly shape expectations for the Academy Awards and the broader conversation around cinema in 2026.
