2026 Independent Spirit Awards: Complete List of Winners
The 41st Independent Spirit Awards took place on Sunday night, honoring exceptional contributions in independent films and television. Hosted by former “Saturday Night Live” star Ego Nwodim, the event was held at the Hollywood Palladium. Noteworthy films included “Train Dreams” and “Adolescence,” both of which garnered prominent accolades.
2026 Independent Spirit Awards: Complete List of Winners
Film Categories
- Best Feature:
- “Train Dreams”
- Producers: Michael Heimler, Will Janowitz, Marissa McMahon, Ashley Schlaifer, Teddy Schwarzman
- Best Lead Performance:
- Joel Edgerton, “Train Dreams”
- Other nominees included Rose Byrne and Keke Palmer.
- Best Director:
- Clint Bentley, “Train Dreams”
- Other nominees included Eva Victor and Mary Bronstein.
- Best First Feature:
- “Lurker”
- Director: Alex Russell
- Best International Film:
- “The Secret Agent,” Brazil, Director: Kleber Mendonça Filho
- Best Documentary:
- “The Perfect Neighbor,” Director/Producer: Geeta Gandbhir
Television Categories
- Best Lead Performance in a New Scripted Series:
- Stephen Graham, “Adolescence”
- Additional nominees included Ethan Hawke and Michelle Williams.
- Best New Scripted Series:
- “Adolescence”
- Creators: Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham
- Best Supporting Performance in a New Scripted Series:
- Erin Doherty, “Adolescence”
- Competitors included Ariyon Bakare and Jenny Slate.
Award Highlights
- Producers Award for Emerging Filmmaker:
- Tony Yang
- Emma Hannaway
- Luca Intili
- Someone to Watch Award:
- Tatti Ribeiro, Director, “Valentina”
The Independent Spirit Awards are known for celebrating creativity and innovation in film and television. Winners are determined by filmmakers and industry veterans, reflecting the spirit of independent storytelling.
