Highlights from the 37th Annual Palm Springs International Film Awards – January 3, 2026

The 37th Annual Palm Springs International Film Awards kicked off awards season with glamour, inspiration, and standout cinematic achievements on January 3, 2026, at the Palm Springs Convention Center in Southern California. The gala, part of the broader 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival (Jan 2–12), continues its legacy as one of Hollywood’s most star-studded and influential pre-Oscar celebrations.

The Big Winners & Honorees

The ceremony honored an impressive range of talent — from established icons to rising stars — recognizing outstanding accomplishments in film from the past year:

Major Awards & Recipients

Icon Award (Actor): Michael B. Jordan for Sinners — a powerful dual performance that captured critics’ attention.
Icon Award (Actress): Kate Hudson for Song Sung Blue, celebrated not only for her performance but her enduring contribution to cinema.
Desert Palm Achievement Award (Actor): Leonardo DiCaprio for One Battle After Another — accepted via video due to travel disruptions.
Desert Palm Achievement Award (Actress): Amanda Seyfried for The Testament of Ann Lee.
Career Achievement Award: Ethan Hawke for his remarkable body of work.
Spotlight Award: Timothée Chalamet for Marty Supreme, highlighting his range and artistic commitment.
International Star Award: Ensemble of Sentimental Value — a global cinema favorite.
Visionary Award: Guillermo del Toro and the Frankenstein cast, recognized for bold storytelling and visual innovation.
Breakthrough Performance Award: Rose Byrne for If I Had Legs I’d Kick You.
Outstanding Artistic Achievement Award: Miley Cyrus for the song “Dream as One” from Avatar: Fire and Ash.

Showstopping Moments & Speeches

Despite being unable to attend due to travel limitations, Leonardo DiCaprio delivered a heartfelt video acceptance, emphasizing the communal power of cinema and its ability to connect us beyond screens and borders.

Timothée Chalamet, supported in the audience by partner Kylie Jenner, reflected on artistic risk and creative collaboration during his Spotlight Award speech. At the same time, Michael B. Jordan urged storytellers to pursue originality over formula.

The night also balanced poignancy and humor, with Adam Sandler’s self-deprecating speech earning laughs and applause — a reminder of the humanity behind the craft.

Red Carpet & Style Highlights

Fashion was its own narrative. The desert’s glamour was on full display as stars Elle Fanning, Chase Infiniti, Amanda Seyfried, Paul Mescal, and others brought runway-ready looks to the red carpet — blending bold designs with classic Hollywood elegance.

Why It Matters

As one of the first major award evenings of the film awards season, the Palm Springs International Film Awards sets the tone for upcoming shows such as the Critics’ Choice Awards, the Golden Globes, and, eventually, the Academy Awards. Its track record of spotlighting future Oscar nominees and winners continues to make it an essential stop for filmmakers and fans alike.