Belgian Actor Emmanuel Macchia Claims Cannes 2026 Best Actor Award for Role in ‘Coward’

At the 79th Cannes Film Festival, Belgian actor Emmanuel Macchia made history by winning the Best Actor award alongside French co-star Valentin Campagne for their performances in Lukas Dhont’s film Coward. The film, set during World War I, explores a forbidden love story between two soldiers, marking a significant moment in cinematic representation of LGBTQ+ narratives.

The Rise of Emmanuel Macchia

Macchia, a 20-year-old architecture student from Charleroi, Belgium, had no prior acting experience when he was discovered by filmmaker Lukas Dhont during a casting call for Coward. His breakthrough role as Pierre, a young soldier drawn into a clandestine romance, earned critical acclaim and secured his first major award. “It was a different world, a discovery,” Macchia reflected after the ceremony. “I tried to return to my studies, but it was impossible.”

The film’s director, Dhont, highlighted Macchia’s natural talent, noting that his selection was based on “an instinctive connection to the character’s vulnerability.” Macchia’s performance, which required rigorous training including military drills and theatrical rehearsals, was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.

A Historic Win at Cannes

The Best Actor award at Cannes 2026 was shared by Macchia and Campagne, who played Francis, a charismatic cabaret performer. The duo’s chemistry brought to life the film’s central theme: the struggle for self-acceptance amid the chaos of war. “I hope this film allows young people to love themselves,” Macchia said during his acceptance speech. “It’s about being clumsy, not understanding others, but still dancing, living and loving.”

Campagne, already recognized for his role in Dossier 137, echoed Macchia’s sentiments. “This film is a reminder of the power of art to transcend boundaries,” he stated. The award marks a pivotal moment for both actors, with Coward set for release in the US, UK, and Latin America later this year.

The Film ‘Coward’ and Its Impact

Coward, Dhont’s third feature film, delves into the lesser-known history of soldiers who performed cabarets near the front lines to boost morale. The story, rooted in historical accounts, challenges traditional narratives of wartime experiences by centering queer relationships. Production involved extensive research into WWI-era military practices, including costume design and period-specific choreography.

The film’s reception at Cannes underscored its cultural significance. Critics highlighted its bold storytelling and the actors’ immersive performances. “This is a film that dares to be vulnerable,” wrote Variety‘s Guy Lodge, who noted that Coward “redefines the boundaries of historical cinema.”

Looking Ahead

As Coward prepares for its global release, Macchia’s journey from architecture student to Cannes laureate exemplifies the transformative power of art. His collaboration with Dhont and Campagne has not only redefined his career but also contributed to a broader conversation about representation in film. With the film’s upcoming screenings, audiences worldwide will have the opportunity to experience the poignant story that captivated Cannes 2026.