What Is the Best Supporting Actor Award
The Best Supporting Actor award honors the actor who delivered a standout performance in a secondary role in a film. It is presented annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as part of the Oscars.
History and Notable Winners
The award was first presented in 1937 for performances in films released the previous year. Early winners included Walter Brennan, who won three times in the category. In recent decades, actors such as Christoph Waltz and Mahershala Ali have won for distinctive supporting turns. For a full list of past recipients, visit the official Academy Awards database.
How the Winner Is Chosen
Members of the Academy’s Actors Branch vote to select nominees and the winner. The process uses a preferential ballot, and the film with the highest vote share wins. The ceremony is typically held in late February or early March in Los Angeles.
