24 stars who won Oscars for their first movie

Securing an Oscar is a rare feat that often requires a blend of extraordinary talent, impeccable timing, and a sprinkle of luck. While Hollywood legends like Leonardo DiCaprio might take decades to bag their first Academy Award, some talented individuals achieve this milestone right out of the gate. This exclusive club boasts actors, directors, and screenwriters whose debut films not only marked the beginning of their cinematic journey but also earned them the prestigious Oscar. Let’s delve into the fascinating stories of 24 individuals who won Oscars for their first films.

Table of Contents

1. Gale Sondergaard – Best Supporting Actress (1937)

The 9th Academy Awards introduced the category of Best Supporting Actress, and it was during this inaugural year that Gale Sondergaard made history. Her role in the 1936 film “Anthony Adverse” not only earned her an Oscar but was also her first-ever film role. Sondergaard’s cinematic journey spanned nearly five decades, and she received another Academy Award nomination in 1946 for “Anna and the King of Siam.”

2. Katina Paxinou – Best Supporting Actress (1944)

Katina Paxinou, a co-founder of the National Theatre of Greece, found herself on Hollywood’s stage with her debut film “For Whom the Bell Tolls” in 1944. Fleeing the outbreak of World War II, Paxinou’s poignant portrayal of Pilar earned her the Best Supporting Actress Oscar, marking a remarkable beginning to her film career.

3. Harold Russell – Best Supporting Actor (1947)

Harold Russell’s life story is as remarkable as his Oscar win for “The Best Years of Our Lives.” A non-professional actor and a war veteran who lost both hands during a military explosion, Russell’s debut film performance earned him an Academy Award and a special honorary award for bringing hope and courage to fellow veterans.

4. Mercedes McCambridge – Best Supporting Actress (1950)

Orson Welles once hailed her as “the world’s greatest living radio actress,” and Mercedes McCambridge proved her mettle in her first film, “All the King’s Men” (1949). Winning the Best Supporting Actress Oscar, McCambridge’s career extended over 37 years, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood.

5. Shirley Booth – Best Actress (1953)

Shirley Booth’s transition from Broadway to the silver screen was nothing short of spectacular. Her first film, “Come Back, Little Sheba,” not only mirrored her Tony Award success but also earned her an Oscar and Golden Globe for Best Actress in 1953.

6. Eva Marie Saint – Best Supporting Actress (1955)

Starting as an NBC page, Eva Marie Saint ventured into film with “On the Waterfront” in 1955. A debut that resonated with audiences, Saint’s portrayal of Edie won her the Best Supporting Actress Oscar, marking a stellar beginning to her cinematic journey.

7. Delbert Mann – Best Director (1956)

Delbert Mann’s directorial debut with “Marty” in 1955 proved that experience wasn’t a prerequisite for success. The film not only earned Mann the Best Director Oscar but also clinched awards for Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

8. Jo Van Fleet – Best Supporting Actress (1956)

Jo Van Fleet’s journey from stage to screen culminated in her first film, “East of Eden” (1955). Directed by Elia Kazan, the film showcased Van Fleet’s exceptional talent, earning her the Best Supporting Actress Oscar at the 28th Annual Academy Awards in 1956.

9. Jerome Robbins – Best Director (1962)

When Robert Wise enlisted Jerome Robbins to co-direct the film adaptation of “West Side Story,” Robbins faced the daunting task with no prior film experience. Despite his challenges, Robbins clinched the Best Director Oscar for his first and only film.

10. Julie Andrews – Best Actress (1965)

Already a stage sensation, Julie Andrews ventured into film with “Mary Poppins” in 1964. Despite initially declining the role, Andrews’ iconic performance earned her the Best Actress Oscar in 1965, solidifying her status as a Hollywood legend.

11. Barbra Streisand – Best Actress (1968)

Following her success in “Funny Girl” on Broadway, Barbra Streisand graced the silver screen with the film adaptation. Streisand’s role not only earned her an Academy Award but also marked the first tie in the Best Actress category, shared with Katharine Hepburn.

12. Tatum O’Neal – Best Supporting Actress (1974)

At the tender age of 10, Tatum O’Neal made history as the youngest person to win an Academy Award. Her debut film “Paper Moon” (1973), starring alongside her real-life father, showcased O’Neal’s exceptional talent.

13. Timothy Hutton – Best Supporting Actor (1981)

Timothy Hutton’s portrayal in “Ordinary People” (1980) marked his transition from TV movies to the big screen. At just 20 years old, Hutton’s remarkable performance earned him the Best Supporting Actor Oscar.

14. Haing S. Ngor – Best Supporting Actor (1985)

Dr. Haing S. Ngor’s debut in “The Killing Fields” (1984) was more than just a remarkable first film; it was a poignant portrayal deeply rooted in his personal experiences. Ngor’s performance earned him the Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 1985.

15. Marlee Matlin – Best Actress (1986)

Marlee Matlin’s debut in “Children of a Lesser God” (1986) not only earned her the Best Actress Oscar but also made her the first deaf person to win the prestigious award. Matlin’s exceptional performance showcased her depth as an actress.

16. Anna Paquin – Best Supporting Actress (1994)

At the age of 11, Anna Paquin’s unexpected audition for “The Piano” led to her winning the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. The young actress captivated audiences, showcasing talent beyond her years.

17. Sam Mendes – Best Director (2000)

Despite being relatively unknown in the film industry, Sam Mendes made a splash with his directorial debut, “American Beauty” (1999). The film not only won Mendes the Best Director Oscar but also secured accolades for Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Cinematography.

18. Michael Arndt – Best Original Screenplay (2007)

The 2006 film “Little Miss Sunshine” not only marked the directorial debut of Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris but also showcased Michael Arndt’s first screenplay. Completing the rough draft in just three days, Arndt’s work earned him an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

19. Jennifer Hudson – Best Supporting Actress (2006)

Jennifer Hudson’s journey from “American Idol” contestant to Oscar winner is a tale of triumph. Her debut film, the 2006 musical drama “Dreamgirls,” not only showcased her vocal prowess but also earned her the Best Supporting Actress Oscar.

20. Diablo Cody – Best Original Screenplay (2008)

Diablo Cody’s unique journey from a “feminist stripper” to an Oscar-winning screenwriter is as unconventional as her debut screenplay. “Juno” (2007) not only marked Cody’s entry into screenwriting but also earned her the Best Original Screenplay Oscar.

21. Geoffrey S. Fletcher – Best Adapted Screenplay (2010)

Geoffrey S. Fletcher’s unconventional start in screenwriting began with an adaptation. “Precious” (2010), based on the novel “Push” by Sapphire, earned Fletcher the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, making him the first African-American to win an Oscar for writing.

22. Mark Boal – Best Original Screenplay (2010)

Mark Boal’s transition from journalism to screenwriting was unconventional but undeniably successful. His 2009 film “The Hurt Locker” not only won him the Best Original Screenplay Oscar but also secured the coveted Best Picture award.

23. Jim Rash & Nat Faxon – Best Adapted Screenplay (2012)

In a unique two-for-one scenario, Jim Rash and Nat Faxon transitioned from acting to co-writing. Their collaboration with Alexander Payne on “The Descendants” (2011), an adaptation of Kaui Hart Hemmings’ novel, earned them the Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar.

24. Lupita Nyong’o – Best Supporting Actress (2014)

Lupita Nyong’o’s captivating debut in “12 Years a Slave” (2013) not only marked her entry into feature-length films but also earned her the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. Nyong’o’s compelling performance showcased her immense talent.

Conclusion

These 25 individuals not only embarked on successful cinematic journeys but also etched their names in Oscar history with victories on their debut films. From actors to directors and screenwriters, their stories illuminate the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the film industry, where talent and luck can converge to create unforgettable moments on the silver screen.

Author Profile

Mark Boardman

Mark Boardman is an established showbiz journalist and freelance copywriter whose work has been published in Business Insider, Daily Mail, Bloomberg, MTV, Buzzfeed, and The New York Post, amongst other media. Often spotted on the red carpet at celebrity events and film screenings, Mark is a regular guest on BBC Radio London and in demand for his opinions on media outlets such as Newsweek, Daily Express, and OK! Magazine, as well as Heart radio, Capital FM, LBC, and Radio 2. His TV credits include ITV News, This Morning, BBC News, The One Show, Sky News, GB News, and Channel T4. Mark is a keen traveller having visited 40+ countries, and a devout sports fan who also attends as many gigs as he can across the capital when not rubbing shoulders with the stars. Email Mark@MarkMeets.com