Jacob Elordi wins first Big prize for Frankenstein at Critics Choice Awards, says ‘Bloody hell, I really didn't plan for it...’

Jacob Elordi at Critics Choice Awards

• Jacob Elordi wins Best Supporting Actor at 2026 Critics Choice Awards
• He was honored for his role as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein
• Elordi is also nominated for a Golden Globe, with the ceremony on 11 January

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Jacob Elordi reached a major milestone in his career at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, taking home the Best Supporting Actor award — his very first big acting honour.

The 28-year-old actor was recognised for his powerful performance as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, at the ceremony held on 4 January at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.

Clearly caught off guard by the win, Jacob Elordi began his speech with a mix of humour and genuine surprise. “Bloody hell. I really didn't plan for it,” he admitted, earning chuckles from the audience. He then turned heartfelt, thanking the director who made it all possible.

“Thank you, Guillermo del Toro. I love you. We all love you. You made my dreams when I was 11. I'm so happy to be here,” he said, before expressing gratitude to his parents for their support.

In the film, based on Mary Shelley’s classic novel, Jacob Elordi portrays the iconic Creature — Victor Frankenstein’s (Oscar Isaac) creation, whose intellect falls short of the inventor’s expectations.

Left to navigate a world he doesn’t understand, the Creature experiences both awe and heartbreak. He becomes enchanted by life, yet grows monstrous when rejected and feared by those around him.

Also Read: Critics Choice Awards 2026: Complete list of winners

Jacob Elordi’s performance captures both the innocence and the tragic anguish of the character, giving the audience a Creature who is as sympathetic as he is terrifying.

Speaking about the role at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival, Jacob Elordi revealed how deeply personal the character became for him. “It was a vessel that I could put every part of myself into. From the moment that I was born to being here with you today, all of it is in that character. And in so many ways, the creature that’s on screen in this movie is the sort of purest form of myself. He’s more me than I am.” His words highlighted just how much of himself he poured into the role, making the Creature a true reflection of his own experiences and emotions.

This Critics Choice win cements Jacob Elordi’s reputation as an actor capable of tackling complex, demanding roles with honesty and depth.

The recognition comes just days before the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, where he is also nominated, with the ceremony set for Sunday, 11 January.