Stars with no gold
Hollywood is packed with stars who light up the screen, take our hearts, and deliver unforgettable performances—yet somehow, the Oscar still slips through their fingers. Award or not, they keep proving their passion runs deeper than trophies, reminding us that true talent doesn’t need a golden statue to shine.
Glenn Close
A legendary actress, Glenn Close has been nominated for an Oscar eight times but has yet to win. Her notable performances include roles in "Fatal Attraction," "Dangerous Liaisons," and "The Wife." Close has also received multiple Golden Globe and Emmy Awards and is known for her versatility across film, television, and stage.
Paramount, Fatal Attraction (1987)
Johnny Depp
Recognized for playing a wide range of characters, Johnny Depp has gotten three award nominations for his roles in "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Finding Neverland," and "Sweeney Todd." He's also well-known for working together with director Tim Burton, and for his knack of making quirky characters like Edward Scissorhands and Willy Wonka seem real.
FilmColony, Finding Neverland (2004)
Tom Cruise
Despite his immense popularity and three Oscar nominations for "Born on the Fourth of July," "Jerry Maguire," and "Magnolia," Tom Cruise has never won an Oscar. He is one of the highest-grossing actors in Hollywood history, known for his dedication to performing his own stunts in the "Mission: Impossible" series.
TriStar Pictures, Jerry Maguire (1996)
Harrison Ford
Most people recognize him from "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones," but Harrison Ford only got an Oscar nod for "Witness" back in 1985. He didn't win, but it didn't matter. He has still held on to his status as one of Hollywood's favorite and timeless stars, with an acting career that's lasted more than 50 years.
Sigourney Weaver
Sigourney Weaver has earned three Oscar nominations for her unforgettable performances in Alien, Working Girl, and Gorillas in the Mist. Beyond accolades, she carved a path as a trailblazer in science fiction, redefining what it meant for women to lead in the genre. Her portrayal of Ellen Ripley didn’t just give audiences an iconic hero—it reshaped the landscape for powerful female characters on screen, leaving a lasting impact on Hollywood and beyond.
20th Century-Fox, Alien (1979)
Edward Norton
Norton has been up for an Oscar three times—once each for "Primal Fear", "American History X," and "Birdman." But despite his riveting performances, he hasn't taken home the little gold statuette. Famous for really getting into his roles, Norton often changes both physically and mentally to truly become his character.
Bradley Cooper
With nine Oscar nominations for acting and producing, Bradley Cooper is still awaiting his first win. His notable roles include "Silver Linings Playbook" and "A Star is Born," where he also showcased his talents as a director and musician.
Annette Bening
Despite four nominations for films like "American Beauty" and "The Kids Are All Right," Annette Bening has not won an Oscar. She is celebrated for her powerful and nuanced performances, often playing complex and multi-dimensional characters.
Dreamworks, American Beauty (1999)
Jake Gyllenhaal
Jake Gyllenhaal is famous for his performances in "Brokeback Mountain" and "Nightcrawler." He has received one nomination but still hasn't won. He's well-known for bravely choosing tough and different roles, earning him a reputation as one of the most admired actors of his age group.
Bold Films, Nightcrawler (2014)
Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams has earned four Oscar nominations for her powerful performances in Brokeback Mountain, Blue Valentine, My Week with Marilyn, and Manchester by the Sea—yet the golden statue still eludes her. Known for the emotional depth she brings to every role, Williams has a rare gift for portraying real people with authenticity and grace, making her one of the most respected actresses of her generation.
River Road Entertainment, Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Ethan Hawke
Ethan Hawke, who's gotten nods for both acting and writing, is notably recognized for films like "Training Day" and "Boyhood." He also wears the hats of a successful writer and director, especially in the realm of indie films. He is also well known for teaming up with fellow director Richard Linklater.
Warner Bros., Training Day (2001)
Helena Bonham Carter
Famous for her offbeat parts, Carter has earned two nominations for "The Wings of the Dove" and "The King's Speech". She frequently teams up with director Tim Burton, and is praised for her distinctive style and knack for bringing outlandish characters to life.
Miramax, The Wings of the Dove (1997)
Ian McKellen
Best known for his roles as Gandalf in "The Lord of the Rings," McKellen has been nominated twice but has not won. He is also a celebrated stage actor, particularly known for his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
New Line Cinema, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
Amy Adams
Amy Adams is yet to bag her first Oscar award, with a total of six nominations for movies such as "American Hustle" and "Arrival." She's recognized for her adaptability and her knack for shining in both funny and serious roles.
Columbia, American Hustle (2013)
Ralph Fiennes
Despite unforgettable performances in Schindler’s List and The English Patient, Ralph Fiennes has yet to claim an Oscar. Beyond film, he’s a powerhouse on the stage—both as an actor and director—where his mastery of Shakespearean drama has cemented his reputation as one of the finest talents of his generation.
Universal, Schindler's List (1993)
Saoirse Ronan
Saoirse Ronan, a young actress well-known for her roles in films like "Atonement" and "Lady Bird", has been nominated four times but hasn't clinched a win yet. Her outstanding performances, characterized by maturity and talent, typically involve portraying layered characters with deep emotions.
John Malkovich
Well known for his distinct style of acting, John Malkovich has gotten two nods for his roles in "Places in the Heart" and "In the Line of Fire". He's also an important figure in theater, as both an actor and a director, and is known for his work with cutting-edge, experimental shows.
Columbia, In the Line of Fire (1993)
Ed Harris
A highly respected actor, Ed Harris has received four Oscar nominations but has not won. His roles in "Apollo 13," "The Truman Show," and "Pollock" are particularly acclaimed for their intensity and authenticity.
Glenn Ford
Even though Glenn Ford had a long and impressive career, he surprisingly never got an Oscar nomination, or even a win. During the 1940s and 1950s, he was one of Hollywood's most reliable leading actors, famous for his roles in Westerns and dramas.
Albert Finney
This legendary UK actor received five Oscar nominations but never managed to take home the prize. Renowned for his versatility and undeniable screen presence, he captivated audiences with memorable performances in classics like Tom Jones and Murder on the Orient Express.
Woodfall Film Productions, Tom Jones (1963)
Richard Burton
He received seven nominations, but Richard Burton never clinched an Oscar, making him one of the most renowned actors who never bagged the award. He is acclaimed for his performances in Shakespearean roles and his rocky relationship with Elizabeth Taylor.
20th Century Fox, Wikimedia Commons
Deborah Kerr
Nominated six times, Deborah Kerr was awarded an honorary Oscar but never won a competitive award. She was known for her elegance and grace, with standout roles in "The King and I" and "From Here to Eternity."
Columbia, From Here To Eternity (1953)
Peter O'Toole
With eight nominations, Peter O'Toole never won a competitive Oscar but received an honorary one in 2003. His iconic roles in "Lawrence of Arabia" and "The Lion in Winter" cemented his status as one of the greats .
Horizon Pictures (II), Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Cary Grant
Despite his iconic status, Cary Grant never won a competitive Oscar—though he received an honorary one in 1970. He was known for his suave screen presence and impeccable comic timing, with classics like "North by Northwest."
MGM, North by Northwest (1959)
Barbara Stanwyck
Barbara Stanwyck earned four Oscar nominations throughout her career, eventually receiving an honorary Academy Award in 1982 for her lasting contributions to film. A true chameleon on screen, she seamlessly moved between gritty film noir roles and lighthearted romantic comedies, cementing her status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile stars.
Kirk Douglas
Even though he was nominated three times, Kirk Douglas never actually bagged a competitive Oscar. However, he did get an honorary one in 1996. His strong acting skills were especially prominent in movies like "Spartacus" and "Lust for Life."
James Dean
Posthumously nominated twice for "East of Eden" and "Giant," James Dean never won an Oscar. His brief but impactful career left a lasting legacy, and he remains an icon of youthful rebellion.
Warner Bros., East of Eden (1955)
Montgomery Clift
Nominated four times, Montgomery Clift never won an Oscar despite his powerful performances. He was known for his emotional intensity and his influence on method acting in Hollywood.
Studio Publicity, Wikimedia Commons
Myrna Loy
Myrna Loy has enjoyed a lengthy and impressive career, but surprisingly she never got an Oscar nod. She was, however, honored with a special Oscar in 1991. She's recognized for her parts in the "Thin Man" series and her incredible work in the Golden Era of Hollywood.
