In a night filled with surprises and heartfelt moments at the 31st Annual Critics’ Choice Awards on January 4, 2026, Jacob Elordi emerged as a standout winner, claiming the Best Supporting Actor trophy for his haunting portrayal of the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein. The Australian actor, best known for roles in Euphoria and Saltburn, transformed into Mary Shelley’s iconic monster in this highly anticipated adaptation, delivering a performance that critics hailed as raw, vulnerable, and profoundly human.

Elordi’s victory marked his first major acting award, beating out tough competition including established names like Benicio del Toro, Paul Mescal, Sean Penn, Adam Sandler, and Stellan Skarsgård. His win was part of a strong showing for Frankenstein, which also took home awards for production design, costume design, and hair and makeup—reflecting the film’s meticulous gothic aesthetic and del Toro’s visionary direction.

What truly captivated audiences worldwide, however, was Elordi’s acceptance speech. Visibly humbled and unprepared, the 28-year-old actor stepped onto the stage and poured out his gratitude in a raw, emotional tribute that brought many in the room—and viewers at home—to tears. He thanked the fans who have supported him throughout his career, acknowledging how their encouragement helped him navigate the pressures of fame and push boundaries in his craft. “You guys have been with me through everything,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion, emphasizing the deep connection he feels with his audience.

‘One Battle After Another’ Takes Best Picture at Critics Choice Awards

Elordi’s portrayal in Frankenstein has been widely praised for reimagining the Creature not as a mindless beast, but as a tragic figure grappling with isolation, pain, and a desperate search for humanity. Del Toro himself described the performance as “heartbreaking and beautiful,” noting how Elordi brought emotional nakedness to the role. This depth translated seamlessly into his speech, where he reflected on the parallels between the character’s loneliness and his own journey in Hollywood.

The moment resonated deeply because it highlighted Elordi’s growth from teen heartthrob to serious dramatic actor. Rising to fame with The Kissing Booth series, he has steadily taken on more challenging roles, proving his versatility. His win signals strong momentum heading into the Oscars race, where Frankenstein is expected to contend in multiple categories.

The Critics’ Choice Awards, often seen as a predictor of Academy Award outcomes, kicked off the 2026 awards season with several upsets and emotional highs. While films like One Battle After Another dominated the top prizes, Elordi’s triumph underscored the power of transformative performances in genre storytelling. As Hollywood continues to celebrate bold reinterpretations of classics, Elordi’s tearful gratitude to fans served as a reminder of the human element behind the glamour—a genuine, moving acknowledgment that left an indelible mark on the evening.