Why the SAG Awards Are Now Called the Actor Awards — and This Year’s Big Winners

The awards show long known as the Screen Actors Guild Awards has entered a new era. Now rebranded as the Actor Awards, the ceremony continues its tradition of honoring performers while introducing a new name that reflects the iconic statuette and the idea of actors recognizing fellow actors.

One of Hollywood’s most recognizable awards ceremonies has a new identity. The event formerly known as the Screen Actors Guild Awards has been rebranded as the Actor Awards.

The change debuted during the ceremony’s 32nd annual edition, which streamed live on Netflix at 8 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 1, 2026. While the name is different, the spirit of the show remains the same: honoring outstanding performances chosen by fellow actors.

Why the Name Changed

SAG-AFTRA explained the reasoning behind the new name on the awards show’s official website. According to the organization, the change was made "to better reflect its true spirit and position as the only industry honor given to actors, by actors."

The website also described how the new title connects to the show’s iconic trophy. "The new name, The Actor Awards Presented by SAG-AFTRA, is inspired by both our iconic statuette, The Actor, and the power of human performance," the site states.

Despite the rebrand, the organization emphasized that the core structure of the ceremony remains unchanged. "Nothing about what makes the show special is changing. The Actor Awards remain exclusively voted on by SAG-AFTRA members. The categories remain the same, and the night remains ours as a gathering of actors honoring actors."

SAG-AFTRA also explained that the shift reflects the program’s growing global audience as the show now streams on Netflix. "Since the show’s inception, the statuette has been called The Actor, and, as the show’s global audience expanded through Netflix, the timing felt right to make the alignment official and step confidently into the show’s next era," the website adds.

Film Category Winners

The 32nd ceremony delivered several notable victories in the film categories. "Sinners" took home the top film prize of the night, winning best performance by an ensemble in a motion picture. The cast of the film accepted the award together during the ceremony. Michael B. Jordan also earned recognition for his leading role in Ryan Coogler’s film, adding another major win connected to "Sinners."

Other acting honors went to Jessie Buckley, who won best leading actress for her role in "Hamnet." Sean Penn was named best supporting actor for his performance in "One Battle After Another," while Amy Madigan won best supporting actress for her role in "Weapons."

Television Category Highlights

The television awards recognized both comedy and drama series ensembles. "The Studio" won best ensemble in a comedy series, while Seth Rogen earned the award for best actor in a comedy series.

During the ceremony, Rogen also accepted the award for best actress in a comedy series on behalf of Catherine O’Hara, who died in January. While accepting the honor, he delivered a touching tribute to his late co-star.

In the drama categories, "The Pitt" won best ensemble in a drama series. Noah Wyle was also honored with the award for best actor for his role on the show. Keri Russell won best actress in a drama series for her performance in "The Diplomat."

Limited Series and Stunt Awards

The ceremony also recognized performances in limited series categories. Michelle Williams won for her role in "Dying for Sex," while Owen Cooper earned the award for his performance in "Adolescence."

Stunt performers were also recognized earlier in the evening during Netflix’s red carpet preshow. "Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning" won best stunt ensemble in a film, while "The Last of Us" received the honor for best stunt ensemble in a television series.

Although the Screen Actors Guild Awards now carry a new name, the mission of the ceremony remains the same. The Actor Awards continue to celebrate outstanding performances chosen by fellow actors within the industry.

The 32nd ceremony marked the beginning of this new chapter while recognizing some of the year’s most talked-about performances across film and television. With a growing global audience and a fresh identity, the Actor Awards appear set to continue their long-standing tradition of honoring actors and their craft.