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Maggie O'Farrell Receives Oscar Nod for Hamnet Adaptation

1/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Maggie O'Farrell, author of Hamnet, says her Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay is "very surreal," shared with director Chloe Zhao.
The film has eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Jessie Buckley, who plays Agnes.
The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15, 2026, and O'Farrell, from Coleraine, Northern Ireland, has seen Hamnet acclaimed for exploring Shakespeare and his wife.

History

Historical Context

The first Academy Awards, held on May 16, 1929, at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, recognized films from 1927 to 1928. The ceremony honored 12 categories, with "Wings" winning the Outstanding Picture award. This event marked the beginning of a prestigious tradition in film, reflecting the industry's evolving role in cultural storytelling, as seen today with Maggie O'Farrell's Oscar nomination for "Hamnet."

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Story summary

Maggie O'Farrell, author of Hamnet, says her Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay is "very surreal," shared with director Chloe Zhao.
The film has eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Jessie Buckley, who plays Agnes.
The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15, 2026, and O'Farrell, from Coleraine, Northern Ireland, has seen Hamnet acclaimed for exploring Shakespeare and his wife.

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