Sean Penn wins third Oscar but misses 2026 Academy awards: Here’s why the actor continues to defy red-carpet traditions

Sean Penn made headlines at the 98th Academy Awards on March 15, 2026, when he won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his riveting performance in the acclaimed war satire One Battle After Another. What turned heads even more than the win, however, was Penn’s absence from the ceremony itself. The seasoned Hollywood star, known for his intense roles and outspoken public presence, was not at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles when his name was called, sparking widespread conversation across the entertainment world.



Penn’s award for One Battle After Another marked his third Academy Award, adding to his two Best Actor wins for Mystic River and Milk. In the film, he played Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw, a morally ambiguous military officer in Paul Thomas Anderson’s movie that dominated this year’s Oscars with multiple wins including Best Picture and Best Director. Although Penn wasn’t present to accept his statue, the honour places him in an elite club of actors with three acting Oscars — a rare achievement in Academy history.



When Penn’s name was announced on stage, presenter Kieran Culkin accepted the award on his behalf, even making a lighthearted comment about his absence. Penn had skipped the ceremony entirely — and this wasn’t the first time this awards season he chose not to attend big shows where he was nominated or won. He also missed both the BAFTAs and the SAG Awards earlier in the season, despite winning at those events as well. Reports indicate Penn was out of the country at the time of the Oscars, though specific details of his whereabouts were not officially confirmed.



Penn has long been recognised for his unconventional path in Hollywood — seamlessly blending blockbuster roles with politically charged projects and humanitarian work. One Battle After Another received multiple major nominations and wins, and its success this awards season has underscored Penn’s enduring impact as an actor, even as he continues to defy traditional red‑carpet appearances.