Diane Warren Sets Record for Most Oscar Nominations Without a Win

At the 2026 Academy Awards, Diane Warren faced her 17th nomination for Best Original Song but did not secure a win, marking a historic milestone as the individual with the most nominations without a competitive Oscar victory. Her nominated song, "Dear Me," performed by Kesha in the documentary *Diane Warren: Relentless*, lost to "Golden" by Ejae, Ido, and Teddy Park from *K-Pop Demon Hunters*.

Grammy Winner Creates Unwanted Oscar Record With Another LossDaily MailDeadline HollywoodComplex

Diane Warren's journey with the Academy Awards began in 1987 when she was first nominated for "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now" from the film *Mannequin*. Over the years, she has received nominations for several notable songs, including "Because You Loved Me" by Celine Dion and "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith. Despite her prolific songwriting career, which includes collaborations with artists such as Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift, Warren has yet to win a competitive Oscar, surpassing the previous record holder, sound mixer Greg P. Russell, who had 16 nominations without a win.

Grammy Winner Creates Unwanted Oscar Record With Another Loss

Following her latest loss, Warren expressed her disappointment regarding the Academy's decision to perform only two of the five nominated songs during the ceremony, stating, "It is unfair to me and my fellow nominees because you just excluded three songs and chose two." She acknowledged the irony of her situation, humorously remarking, "Well, at least I'm consistent!" and noted that her honorary Oscar, awarded in 2022, "gets really lonely" and desires a competitive counterpart.

Daily Mail

Warren's repeated losses have drawn attention to the Academy's voting processes and the treatment of nominees. Critics argue that her extensive contributions to music warrant recognition beyond honorary accolades. The decision to limit performances of nominated songs has also faced scrutiny, with many believing it undermines the respect due to all nominees.

Grammy Winner Creates Unwanted Oscar Record With Another Loss

• “I’ll take it.” — Diane Warren, reflecting on her title as the person with the most nominations without a win.

Deadline Hollywood

• “At least I'm a record holder of something!!,” — Diane Warren, commenting on her unique position in Oscar history.

Complex

• “'It would have been nice had [Kesha] been able to perform the song,' Warren told USA Today at a Women in Film Oscar nominees event on Friday.” — Diane Warren, on the Academy's decision regarding song performances.

Daily Mail

Despite her ongoing streak of nominations without wins, Warren remains optimistic and motivated to continue her songwriting career. She has indicated her intent to return to the studio, stating, “Ok, on to the next song!” As she continues to create, the music community, including fellow artists like Kesha and Susan Lucci, has shown support, encouraging her to persevere in her artistic endeavors.

Complex