The numbers
Nina Gold was nominated for the Best Casting award for her work on the acclaimed film Hamnet at the 2026 Oscars. However, she lost the award to Cassandra Kulukundis, who made history by winning the first-ever Oscar for casting for her work on One Battle After Another.
The competition for the Best Casting award included notable nominees such as Jennifer Venditti, Francine Maisler, and Gabriel Domingues. Gold’s nomination highlighted her significant contributions to the film industry, particularly through her work on Hamnet, which has been praised for its compelling performances and direction.
Cassandra Kulukundis, who has been a casting director for over 30 years, expressed her gratitude upon receiving the award. “I dedicate this to you and to the casting directors who never got a chance to receive such an award,” she stated during her acceptance speech. Kulukundis has collaborated with renowned director Paul Thomas Anderson on nearly all of his films since Magnolia, showcasing a long-standing partnership that has shaped her career.
The introduction of a casting award by the British Film Academy in 2020 marked a significant recognition of the role casting directors play in filmmaking. Kulukundis’s win not only acknowledges her talent but also the importance of casting in the overall success of a film. She thanked the Academy for adding the casting category, emphasizing the need for recognition in this often-overlooked aspect of film production.
Reflecting on her career, Kulukundis began as an intern on Anderson’s debut film, Hard Eight, and has since grown into a pivotal figure in the industry. “When Paul Thomas Anderson calls you, you enter the PTA witness protection programme,” she humorously remarked, highlighting the unique experience of working with the acclaimed director.
While Gold’s loss was a disappointment for her supporters, her nomination itself is a testament to her skills and the impact of her work on Hamnet. Observers note that the recognition of both Gold and Kulukundis underscores the evolving landscape of casting in cinema.
As the film industry continues to evolve, the importance of casting directors like Gold and Kulukundis will likely remain a topic of discussion. Details remain unconfirmed regarding future awards and nominations, but the impact of this year’s Oscars on the casting community is expected to resonate for years to come.