Sean Penn explains decision to skip Oscars despite recent award win

Sean Penn has revealed the reason he chose to skip the Oscars, explaining that his discomfort with large social gatherings played a key role in his decision.

The 65-year-old actor and filmmaker recently addressed his absence from the ceremony during a conversation with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins at the Tribeca Festival in New York on June 5, where he reflected on his long-standing unease with high-profile awards events.

Penn said the Oscars have “always represented social discomfort” for him, noting that he prefers to avoid crowded environments and structured public appearances.

He explained that his experience attending the Golden Globe Awards helped solidify his decision to step back from such events.

“I’d never been to that before,” Penn said. “And that’s where I decided, ‘I can’t do this.’”

The Oscar-winning actor added that he is generally uncomfortable in situations involving large groups of people, saying he struggles with events that include extensive social interaction.

“I won’t go anywhere to be with a designated group beyond eight people,” he said. “If you cut out two hours for your night, it gives you 15 minutes per person.”

Penn described his feelings toward award shows and similar gatherings as “anxiety- and dread-inducing,” emphasizing that his decision was based on personal comfort rather than professional obligation.

Despite skipping the Oscars, Penn has remained active in his work and public engagements. 

He recently received recognition for his supporting role in the Leonardo DiCaprio-led film One Battle After Another.

The actor also drew attention during the same awards season after traveling to Ukraine, where he was presented with a symbolic “special Oscar” made from metal sourced from a damaged railway carriage, according to reports.