Adam Sandler may be one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and beloved stars, but awards season once again proved unpredictable for the actor. At the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, Sandler did not take home the trophy for Best Supporting Actor, despite earning strong buzz and critical praise for his dramatic performance in Jay Kelly.
The ceremony, held on Sunday, January 4, at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, marked an early highlight of the 2026 awards season. While Sandler was considered a serious contender, the honor ultimately went to Jacob Elordi, who won for his transformative performance as The Creature in Frankenstein.
A Competitive Category
The Best Supporting Actor category was packed with acclaimed performances this year, making the outcome far from guaranteed. Alongside Sandler and Elordi, the nominees included Benicio del Toro and Sean Penn for One Battle After Another, Paul Mescal for Hamnet, and Stellan Skarsgård for Sentimental Value.
Each actor brought something distinct to the category, and the final decision reflected a year filled with ambitious, performance-driven films. Elordi’s win marked another major milestone in his rapidly evolving career, while Sandler’s loss was met with disappointment by fans who have championed his dramatic work.
Sandler’s Performance in Jay Kelly
In Jay Kelly, Sandler plays Ron Sukenick, the longtime manager and confidant of an aging A-list movie star portrayed by George Clooney. The film explores themes of regret, ambition, and the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of fame.
As Ron, Sandler delivers a restrained, emotionally grounded performance, stepping away from his trademark humor to portray loyalty, frustration, and quiet reflection. The character accompanies Jay on a trip through Europe, serving as both emotional anchor and mirror to the choices Jay has made throughout his life.
The film also stars Laura Dern, Billy Crudup, and an ensemble cast that received praise for its chemistry and depth.
Awards Season Recognition Continues
Despite missing out on the Critics Choice win, Jay Kelly had a strong showing at the ceremony. The film earned nominations for Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Casting and Ensemble, signaling widespread industry appreciation.
Sandler’s performance also earned him a Golden Globe nomination, reinforcing his standing as a serious dramatic actor. While the Critics Choice Awards did not go his way this time, the recognition confirms that his work continues to resonate with critics and audiences alike.
A Quiet Night on the Red Carpet
Sandler attended the ceremony with his wife, Jackie Sandler, by his side. The couple opted for a low-key red carpet appearance, reflecting Sandler’s typically understated approach to awards shows.
Their daughters, Sadie, 19, and Sunny, 17, did not attend the event, despite previously appearing alongside their parents at industry functions. Jacob Elordi, meanwhile, walked the red carpet solo as he celebrated his big night.
While Sandler did not leave with a trophy, his presence underscored his continued relevance during awards season — something that once seemed unlikely for an actor long associated primarily with comedy.
Not Sandler’s First Awards Snub
This is not the first time Sandler has earned critical acclaim for a dramatic performance without securing a major awards win. In 2019, his intense role in Uncut Gems earned widespread praise and a Critics Choice nomination, but he ultimately lost out to Joaquin Phoenix for Joker.
That performance marked a turning point in how critics viewed Sandler, proving his range extended far beyond slapstick comedy. Since then, his dramatic roles have been closely watched, with Jay Kelly representing another step forward in that evolution.
Sandler’s Perspective on Awards Buzz
Following the premiere of Jay Kelly, Sandler addressed awards chatter with characteristic humility. Rather than focusing on trophies, he emphasized gratitude for being part of a meaningful project.
He credited the film’s director and creative team for shaping the story and drawing out strong performances from the cast. For Sandler, simply being involved in a film that resonated with audiences appeared to matter more than winning accolades.
This grounded attitude has long defined Sandler’s public persona — even as his body of work continues to earn respect in dramatic circles.
A Family Affair on Screen
One of the most personal aspects of Jay Kelly for Sandler was working alongside his eldest daughter, Sadie. She appears in the film as his character’s daughter, marking another collaboration between Sandler and his children.
Sandler has spoken openly about how proud he is of Sadie’s work, praising her dedication and preparation. The opportunity to share the screen with his daughter added an emotional layer to the project that went beyond awards recognition.
Working With His Kids: A Career Highlight
In recent interviews, Sandler has shared how much he enjoys collaborating with his daughters, both on set and in everyday life. Over the years, Sadie and Sunny have appeared in several of his films, becoming familiar faces to longtime fans.
For Sandler, these collaborations are about more than convenience — they’re about connection. He has described working with his children as one of the most rewarding aspects of his career, offering moments of joy that surpass box office numbers or awards recognition.
Looking Ahead
While the Critics Choice trophy wasn’t in the cards this year, Sandler’s future remains bright. With Jay Kelly continuing to generate conversation and awards-season momentum, his place as a respected dramatic performer feels firmly established.
At 59, Sandler has little left to prove. Whether through comedy, drama, or collaborations with his family, he continues to evolve — and audiences continue to follow.
Sometimes, the loss of an award does little to diminish the impact of a performance. If anything, Sandler’s journey proves that critical respect and lasting legacy aren’t defined by trophies alone.