Hollywood Legends Who Never Won an Oscar for Acting

The Biggest Oscar Snubs in History

The Academy Awards, or Oscars, are seen as the pinnacle of achievement in the film industry. Winning an Oscar can be a defining moment in an actor's career, cementing their status as a legend.

However, not every Hollywood icon has had the chance to hold that golden statuette, despite delivering performances that have left an indelible mark on cinema. Over the years, many talented actors have been nominated multiple times, yet never won.

Some were passed over for other performances, while others faced stiff competition or suffered from Academy voting biases. Remarkably, some actors who significantly shaped Hollywood's legacy were never even nominated.

This list highlights some of these extraordinary actors who, despite their immense talent, never won an Oscar for acting.

Peter O’Toole: The Most-Nominated Actor Without a Win

Peter O’Toole is a name that resonates with anyone familiar with classic cinema. Sadly, he holds the record for the most acting nominations without a win, with eight nods for Best Actor.

His portrayal of T.E. Lawrence in "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962) is often cited as one of the greatest performances in film history.

Yet, the Oscar that many believed was his to win went to Gregory Peck for "To Kill a Mockingbird." Despite his numerous iconic roles, O’Toole never clinched a competitive Oscar. In 2003, the Academy awarded him an Honorary Oscar for his lifetime contributions.

Initially, he hesitated to accept, clinging to the hope of winning competitively, but he ultimately did. Regardless, his legacy remains one of the most formidable in film history.

Glenn Close: The Queen of Near Misses

Glenn Close is often hailed as one of the finest actresses of her generation, yet she has never won an Oscar for acting. Over four decades, she has been nominated eight times but has never secured that elusive prize.

Her most notable close calls include her roles in "Fatal Attraction" (1987) and "Dangerous Liaisons" (1988). In 2019, many thought her performance in "The Wife" would finally earn her an Oscar, but she lost to Olivia Colman for "The Favourite." Despite this, Glenn Close remains one of Hollywood's most respected actresses.

She consistently takes on powerful roles, and there remains a possibility that she may still win an Oscar in the future.

Richard Burton: A Six-Time Oscar Loser

Richard Burton was among the most celebrated actors of his time, yet despite seven nominations, he never won an Oscar. Known for his commanding voice and dramatic presence, Burton’s performances in "Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (1966) and "Becket" (1964) are legendary.

Unfortunately, his personal life, notably his tumultuous relationship with Elizabeth Taylor, often overshadowed his career. Some speculate that Hollywood politics and his off-screen reputation hindered his Oscar chances.

Like O’Toole, Burton was offered an Honorary Oscar, but he passed away before he could accept it. Though his legacy remains strong, the absence of an Oscar is a notable oversight by the Academy.

Marilyn Monroe: Never Even Nominated

Marilyn Monroe remains one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history, yet astonishingly, she was never nominated for an Oscar. While she was often viewed as a glamorous sex symbol, Monroe proved her acting prowess in films like "Some Like It Hot" (1959) and "Bus Stop" (1956).

Many critics argue that her performance in "Some Like It Hot" deserved at least a nomination for its impeccable comedic timing. Unfortunately, the Academy did not fully recognize her talents during her lifetime.

Today, Monroe is remembered as a cultural icon, demonstrating that an Oscar is not the sole measure of greatness.

Cary Grant: A Hollywood Legend Without an Oscar

Cary Grant, known for his charm and versatility, starred in classics like "North by Northwest" (1959) and "Bringing Up Baby" (1938). Despite his popularity and talent, he never won an Oscar for acting.

He was nominated twice, for "Penny Serenade" (1941) and "None but the Lonely Heart" (1944), but never secured a win. In 1970, the Academy awarded him an Honorary Oscar for his contributions to film.

Grant's legacy remains untouchable, proving that some actors do not need awards to be considered great.

Sigourney Weaver: Sci-Fi Queen Without an Oscar

Sigourney Weaver has been a trailblazer for women in action and science fiction films, especially known for her role as Ellen Ripley in the "Alien" franchise. Despite three nominations, for "Aliens" (1986), "Gorillas in the Mist" (1988), and "Working Girl" (1988), she has never won.

Her nomination for "Aliens" was groundbreaking, as the Academy rarely recognizes action or sci-fi performances. Many fans feel she was unfairly overlooked, particularly for her role in "Gorillas in the Mist." Weaver remains an influential figure in Hollywood, and there is still hope for her Oscar win in the future.

Johnny Depp: A Fan Favorite Without an Oscar

Johnny Depp has been one of the most beloved actors of his generation, known for his eccentric and transformative performances. Despite three nominations, he has yet to win an Oscar.

His most famous nominations were for "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" (2003), "Finding Neverland" (2004), and "Sweeney Todd" (2007). Many believe his portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow was iconic, yet he lost to Sean Penn for "Mystic River." Depp's career has had its ups and downs, but his talent remains undeniable, solidifying his place as a major figure in Hollywood.