Eight times Glenn Close sat in that room in her evening gown, heart racing and the name in the envelope… and 8 times she heard another name. From Fatal Attraction to Hillbilly Elegy, the Academy nominated her, gave her a standing ovation, and then turned its back on her. It is Hollywood’s most melancholy record: more acting nominations without a win than any other living actress.
Now, at 79 years old and with more than 50 years in her career, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that Close will receive an honorary Oscar at the 17th Governors Awards, on November 15, 2026, at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles. She shares the honor with director Ridley Scott — another perennial nominee with 4 nominations and no competitive wins — and animator Floyd Norman.
Three Emmys, three Tonys, three Golden Globes adorn her display case. Only one was missing. The only one Hollywood denied her seven times too many 😮
