Best Supporting Actress Oscar Winners: A Complete List

Hey guys! Ever wondered who's snagged the Best Supporting Actress award at the Oscars over the years? Well, you're in for a treat! We're diving deep into the complete list of winners, celebrating the incredible talent and memorable performances that have graced the silver screen. Get ready to explore the actresses who brought depth, emotion, and sheer brilliance to their roles, earning them the prestigious Academy Award.

A Look at the Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actress

The Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actress are presented annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). It is given to honor an actress who has delivered an outstanding performance in a supporting role. The category was introduced at the 9th Academy Awards in 1937, honoring performances in films released in 1936. Before this, there was no specific recognition for supporting roles, making this a significant milestone in acknowledging the depth and breadth of talent in the film industry.

The selection process is pretty interesting. Initially, all members of the Academy can nominate actors for this award. Then, from these nominations, a shortlist is created. After that, only the actors branch of the Academy votes on the final winner. This ensures that the decision is primarily influenced by those who understand the craft of acting intimately. Over the decades, this award has highlighted performances that add layers to the narrative, often stealing scenes and leaving a lasting impact on viewers. Winning this award can be a career-defining moment, opening doors to more significant roles and opportunities in Hollywood. It’s not just about acting; it’s about bringing authenticity and nuance to characters that support and enrich the main storyline. This award celebrates the art of collaboration and the magic that happens when talented actors come together to create something extraordinary. So, as we delve into the list of winners, remember that each name represents a unique contribution to the world of cinema, a testament to the power of storytelling and the incredible talent that brings these stories to life.

The Inaugural Winner: Gale Sondergaard (1936)

The very first Best Supporting Actress Oscar was awarded to Gale Sondergaard for her performance in "Anthony Adverse" (1936). Sondergaard's portrayal of Faith Paleologus set a high bar right from the start. Her nuanced and captivating performance showcased the depth that a supporting role could bring to a film. Sondergaard, a Danish-American actress, had a remarkable career that spanned several decades, but it was her role in "Anthony Adverse" that etched her name in the history books as the first recipient of this prestigious award. The film itself, a sweeping historical drama, provided a rich backdrop for her character to shine.

Sondergaard's win was significant not just for her, but for the industry as a whole. It marked the beginning of recognizing the critical contributions of supporting actresses who often add layers of complexity and emotional resonance to the story. Her performance was praised for its subtlety and the way she brought a mysterious and intriguing quality to her character. This initial recognition helped pave the way for future actresses to be acknowledged for their outstanding work in supporting roles. The impact of her win resonated throughout Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of every role, no matter its size, in creating a compelling and memorable cinematic experience. Sondergaard's legacy extends beyond just being the first; it's about setting a standard for excellence and demonstrating the artistry that supporting actresses bring to the screen. Her win remains a testament to the power of a well-crafted character and the ability of an actress to make a lasting impression.

Notable Winners Through the Decades

Over the years, numerous actresses have delivered unforgettable performances that earned them the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. Let's highlight some standouts from different decades:

1940s: The Era of Character Actresses

The 1940s saw a rise in character actresses who brought depth and authenticity to their roles. Ethel Barrymore won in 1944 for "None But the Lonely Heart," showcasing her ability to imbue her character with both strength and vulnerability. Her performance was a masterclass in subtlety, drawing audiences in with her nuanced portrayal of a complex woman navigating difficult circumstances. Barrymore, a member of the renowned Barrymore acting family, had a distinguished career on stage and screen, and her Oscar win solidified her legacy as one of the great actresses of her time. The 1940s were a golden age for character-driven stories, and actresses like Barrymore were instrumental in bringing these narratives to life.

Also, Anne Revere won in 1945 for "National Velvet." In this era, supporting actresses often played maternal or nurturing roles, adding emotional weight to the films. Revere's win exemplified this trend, highlighting her ability to portray warmth and strength. Her performance in "National Velvet" was particularly memorable, as she captured the spirit of a supportive mother figure with grace and authenticity. The 1940s were a time when Hollywood celebrated the contributions of actresses who could embody the essence of everyday people, and Revere's Oscar win was a testament to her talent and the importance of her role in the film.

1950s: The Rise of Dramatic Performances

The 1950s marked a shift towards more dramatic and intense performances. Donna Reed's win in 1953 for "From Here to Eternity" is a perfect example. Reed, often known for her wholesome roles, surprised audiences with her powerful and emotionally charged portrayal of Alma Burke, a club hostess. Her performance showcased her versatility and ability to tackle complex characters, earning her critical acclaim and the Academy Award. The 1950s were a decade of transformation in Hollywood, and actresses like Reed were at the forefront, pushing boundaries and challenging expectations.

In 1957, Miyoshi Umeki won for "Sayonara," becoming the first Asian woman to win an acting Oscar. Her role as Katsumi Kelly was both poignant and powerful, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotions with subtlety and grace. Umeki's win was a groundbreaking moment in the history of the Academy Awards, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Her performance resonated with audiences and critics alike, paving the way for future generations of Asian actors and actresses to be recognized for their talent and contributions to the film industry. The 1950s were a decade of change and progress, and Umeki's win was a testament to the growing recognition of diverse voices in cinema.

1960s: A Decade of Transformation

The 1960s brought about significant changes in cinema, reflecting the social and cultural shifts of the time. Shelley Winters won her first Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 1960 for "The Diary of Anne Frank." Winters delivered a moving and heartfelt performance as Mrs. Petronella Van Daan, capturing the character's warmth and resilience amidst the horrors of World War II. Her win was a testament to her ability to bring depth and humanity to her roles, and it solidified her reputation as one of the great actresses of her generation. The 1960s were a decade of profound change, and Winters' performance reflected the era's growing awareness of social issues and the importance of empathy and understanding.

Then in 1968, Estelle Parsons won for "Bonnie and Clyde," showcasing the decade's embrace of edgier, more complex characters. Parsons' portrayal of Blanche Barrow was both comedic and tragic, capturing the character's vulnerability and strength in the face of adversity. Her performance was a standout in the film, earning her critical acclaim and the Academy Award. The 1960s were a time of experimentation and innovation in cinema, and Parsons' win reflected the industry's willingness to embrace new and unconventional stories.

1970s: The Era of Strong Female Characters

The 1970s saw the emergence of strong, independent female characters. Cloris Leachman won in 1971 for "The Last Picture Show," a role that showcased her range and ability to bring depth to even the smallest parts. Leachman's performance as Ruth Popper was both poignant and memorable, capturing the character's loneliness and resilience in a small, rural town. Her win was a testament to her talent and the growing recognition of the importance of character-driven stories. The 1970s were a decade of change and progress for women in Hollywood, and Leachman's Oscar win was a symbol of that shift.

Ingrid Bergman won her third Oscar (and first for Best Supporting Actress) in 1974 for "Murder on the Orient Express." Bergman's performance as Greta Ohlsson was both subtle and powerful, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotions with minimal dialogue. Her win was a testament to her enduring talent and her ability to captivate audiences with her presence and skill. The 1970s were a decade of great performances, and Bergman's win was a highlight of the era.

1980s: Embracing Complex Roles

The 1980s brought about a wave of actresses embracing complex and challenging roles. Peggy Ashcroft won in 1984 for "A Passage to India," showcasing her ability to bring depth and nuance to her character, Mrs. Moore. Ashcroft's performance was a masterclass in subtlety, capturing the character's compassion and understanding in a complex and culturally diverse setting. Her win was a testament to her talent and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. The 1980s were a decade of great performances, and Ashcroft's Oscar win was a highlight of the era.

And in 1986, Dianne Wiest won her first of two Best Supporting Actress awards for "Hannah and Her Sisters." Wiest's portrayal of Holly, a neurotic and insecure actress, was both hilarious and heartbreaking, showcasing her versatility and range. Her win was a testament to her ability to bring authenticity and vulnerability to her roles, and it solidified her reputation as one of the great actresses of her generation. The 1980s were a decade of great performances, and Wiest's Oscar win was a symbol of the era's embrace of complex and challenging characters.

1990s: A New Generation of Talent

The 1990s introduced a new generation of talented actresses to the forefront. Whoopi Goldberg won in 1990 for "Ghost," becoming the second African-American woman to win an acting Oscar. Goldberg's performance as Oda Mae Brown was both comedic and heartfelt, showcasing her ability to bring warmth and humor to her roles. Her win was a significant moment in the history of the Academy Awards, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. The 1990s were a decade of change and progress, and Goldberg's win was a testament to the growing recognition of diverse voices in cinema.

Also Anna Paquin won in 1993 for "The Piano," becoming one of the youngest winners in the category's history. Paquin's performance as Flora McGrath was both haunting and mesmerizing, capturing the character's innocence and curiosity in a visually stunning and emotionally complex film. Her win was a testament to her talent and her ability to captivate audiences with her presence and skill. The 1990s were a decade of great performances, and Paquin's win was a highlight of the era.

2000s: Diverse and Dynamic Performances

The 2000s continued to showcase diverse and dynamic performances. Jennifer Connelly won in 2001 for "A Beautiful Mind," delivering a powerful and emotional performance as Alicia Nash, the supportive wife of mathematician John Nash. Connelly's portrayal was both heartbreaking and inspiring, showcasing her ability to bring depth and humanity to her roles. Her win was a testament to her talent and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. The 2000s were a decade of great performances, and Connelly's Oscar win was a highlight of the era.

In 2004, Cate Blanchett won for "The Aviator," portraying Katharine Hepburn with remarkable accuracy and grace. Blanchett's performance was a standout in the film, earning her critical acclaim and the Academy Award. The 2000s were a time of great performances, and Blanchett's win was a symbol of the era's embrace of complex and challenging characters.

2010s: Celebrating Versatility

The 2010s celebrated versatility and groundbreaking performances. Melissa Leo won in 2010 for "The Fighter," showcasing her ability to transform into a gritty and authentic character. Leo's performance as Alice Ward was both raw and powerful, capturing the character's strength and determination in a struggling working-class family. Her win was a testament to her talent and her ability to immerse herself in her roles. The 2010s were a decade of great performances, and Leo's Oscar win was a highlight of the era.

Alicia Vikander won in 2015 for "The Danish Girl," offering a sensitive and nuanced portrayal of Gerda Wegener, a woman supporting her transgender husband. Vikander's performance was both heartbreaking and inspiring, showcasing her ability to bring depth and humanity to her roles. Her win was a testament to her talent and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. The 2010s were a decade of great performances, and Vikander's Oscar win was a symbol of the era's embrace of diversity and inclusion.

2020s: Recent Honorees

The 2020s have already seen some remarkable wins. Laura Dern won in 2019 for "Marriage Story," delivering a sharp and memorable performance as a divorce lawyer. Dern's portrayal was both comedic and insightful, capturing the character's intelligence and complexity. Her win was a testament to her talent and her ability to bring authenticity and nuance to her roles. The 2020s are shaping up to be a decade of great performances, and Dern's Oscar win is a promising start.

Most recently, Ariana DeBose won in 2021 for "West Side Story," showcasing her incredible talent as Anita. Her dynamic and vibrant performance brought new life to the iconic character, earning her critical acclaim and the Academy Award. DeBose's win was a significant moment, highlighting the importance of representation and diversity in Hollywood. The 2020s are shaping up to be a decade of great performances, and DeBose's Oscar win is a symbol of the era's commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

Conclusion

The Best Supporting Actress Oscar celebrates the remarkable talent and unforgettable performances that enrich the world of cinema. From Gale Sondergaard to Ariana DeBose, each winner has brought something unique and special to their roles, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and the film industry. Here's to many more years of recognizing and honoring the incredible contributions of supporting actresses! So there you have it, folks! A journey through the incredible world of Best Supporting Actress Oscar winners. Each of these talented women has left an indelible mark on cinema, and their performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Keep celebrating the magic of film!