Ryan Coogler becomes first director with two ensemble wins at Actor Awards
His first victory came in 2018 for Black Panther, which also featured Michael B. Jordan
Ryan Coogler has made Actor Awards history. With Sinners winning Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture at the 32nd Annual Actor Awards, Coogler became the first filmmaker to direct two ensemble winners.
His first victory came in 2018 for Black Panther, which also featured Michael B. Jordan.
Although Coogler did not appear on stage with the cast, the ensemble was well represented.
Cast members included Miles Caton, Buddy Guy, Jayme Lawson, Delroy Lindo, Omar Miller, Wunmi Mosaku, Jack O’Connell and Michael B. Jordan. Hailee Steinfeld was absent from the ceremony, while Lola Kirke and casting director Francine Maisler joined the group during the acceptance moment. Lindo addressed the audience on behalf of the cast.
He described the film as “anointed,” adding that the performers felt privileged to be part of a story shaped by Coogler’s vision.
“We brought ourselves. We brought our hearts, we brought our souls. We brought our spirits to this endeavor, and to be recognized by you all … thank you doesn’t come anywhere near to encompassing what we feel, the gratitude,” Lindo said.
Sinners has emerged as a major awards contender this season and is reportedly nominated for 16 Oscars.
The film competed against One Battle After Another, Frankenstein, Hamnet and Marty Supreme in the ensemble category.
Previous winners in this category include The Birdcage, Chicago, Argo, Parasite, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Oppenheimer and last year’s recipient, Conclave.
Jordan also claimed an individual Actor Award, adding further momentum to an already competitive Best Actor race.