Full Breakdown
2026 Irish Film and Television Awards: Key Winners and Highlights
2/21/2026, 3:52:13 AM
Major Winners of the Night
The 2026 Irish Film and Television Awards, held in Dublin, celebrated notable achievements in film and television, with Leonardo DiCaprio and Emma Stone among the prominent winners. The independent drama “Christy,” directed by Brendan Canty, emerged as the standout film of the evening, winning five awards including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Casting. The narrative of “Christy” centers on a young man seeking independence after leaving the foster care system.
In addition to “Christy,” the film “Hamnet” received accolades for Best International Film, with Jessie Buckley winning Best Lead Actress and Paul Mescal taking home the award for Best Supporting Actor. The screenplay for “Hamnet,” co-written by Maggie O’Farrell and Chloé Zhao, also won an award, highlighting its critical acclaim.
Notable Performances and Awards
Leonardo DiCaprio was recognized for his performance in “One Battle After Another,” while Emma Stone was acknowledged for her role in “Bugonia.” Other notable winners included Éanna Hardwicke, who won Best Lead Actor for “Saipan,” and Kerry Condon, who received the Best Supporting Actress award for her performance in “F1.”
The television categories also saw significant wins, with “Blue Lights” awarded Best TV Drama. Ailbhe Keogan won for Best Script for “Trespasses,” while Anthony Boyle and Lola Petticrew were recognized as Best Lead Actor and Actress in Drama for their respective roles in “House of Guinness” and “Trespasses.”
Record Nominations and Recognition
This year’s ceremony marked a record number of female nominees in directing categories, with seven women recognized across both film and television. Ciarán Hinds was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, acknowledging his contributions to the industry.
Official Statements & Responses
The awards ceremony highlighted the growing recognition of diverse storytelling in Irish cinema and television. The success of films like “Christy” and “Hamnet” reflects a shift towards narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences.
Criticism & Opposition
While the awards celebrated numerous achievements, some critics pointed out the need for greater representation and diversity in nominations, particularly in technical categories. The conversation around inclusivity in the film industry continues to be a focal point for many advocates.
Verbatim Quotes
The 2026 Irish Film and Television Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the evolving landscape of Irish cinema, highlighting both its successes and areas for growth.
