IFTA Awards 2026: ‘Christy’ Wins Best Film, ‘Hamnet’ Sweeps Acting Categories - Full List Here

The Irish Film & Television Academy (IFTA) celebrated the pinnacle of Irish creative talent today at the 23rd annual IFTA Awards. Held at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre, the ceremony saw the gritty independent drama Christy take home the top prize for Best Film, while Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet swept the international and acting categories. Hosted by comedian and actor Kevin McGahern, the event honored a year of significant achievement in both domestic and global cinema. Oscars 2026: Mikey Madison, Adrien Brody and Zoe Saldana To Return As Presenters.

‘Christy’, ‘Hamnet’ Dominate Awards Night

The night’s biggest domestic winner was Christy, a poignant coming-of-age story about a young man seeking independence after exiting the foster care system in Cork. The film, which entered the night with 14 nominations, secured Best Film and earned Brendan Canty the award for Best Director. In the international field, Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet emerged as a major force. The film was named Best International Film, and its leads, Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, won Best Actress and Best Supporting Actor, respectively. Zhao and co-writer Maggie O’Farrell also picked up the award for Best Script for their adaptation of the acclaimed novel. In a surprising turn for the evening, the sports drama Saipan, which held 12 nominations, concluded the ceremony without a single win.

Leonardo DiCaprio, Emma Stone Win Big International Awards

The academy also recognised global performances, naming Leonardo DiCaprio (One Battle After Another) and Emma Stone (Bugonia) as Best International Actor and Best International Actress. The television categories saw a diverse spread of winners:

• Best TV Drama: Blue Lights secured the top television prize.
• Best Actress (Drama): Lola Petticrew won for her performance in Trespasses.
• Best Actor (Drama): Anthony Boyle took home the trophy for the Netflix series House of Guinness.
• Supporting Actress (Drama): Alison Oliver was recognised for her role in the HBO series Task.

Ciarán Hinds Honoured With Lifetime Achievement

The evening featured a prestigious tribute to Oscar-nominated actor Ciarán Hinds, who received the Irish Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement. Hinds was honoured for a prolific career spanning 50 years, during which he has become a staple of both Irish theatre and international blockbusters. The academy noted his "outstanding contribution to the screen industry" and his role as a mentor and icon for the next generation of Irish performers. Oscars 2026 Nominations Full List: Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothee Chalamet Compete for Best Actor; India’s ‘Homebound’ Misses Out.

Louisa Harland Wins Rising Star Award

The Rising Star Award was presented to Louisa Harland. Harland, widely known for Derry Girls, was recognised for her recent work in The Walsh Sisters, marking her as one of the most significant emerging talents in the industry.

IFTA 2026: Key Category Winners

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 21, 2026 01:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).