Ryan Coogler Wins First Oscar for ‘Sinners’ Screenplay
Ryan Coogler has won his first Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for the film Sinners, a horror movie set in the Jim Crow South. The win marks only the second time a horror feature has received this honor in the Academy Awards’ history.
A Breakthrough Win for Coogler and the Horror Genre
Coogler accepted the award on Sunday night, March 15, 2026, at the 98th Academy Awards. He was presented with the award by Robert Downey Jr. And Chris Evans. Sinners was nominated for a record 16 Academy Awards, with Coogler’s screenplay win being the film’s first of the evening. The film had previously garnered wins at the Critics’ Choice Awards, BAFTA Awards, and Writers Guild of America Awards for its screenplay.
From Oakland to the Oscars
In his acceptance speech, Coogler expressed his nervousness and gratitude. He shared his upbringing in Oakland, California, and thanked the Academy for recognizing the film, which was released almost a year prior to the awards ceremony. He also extended his appreciation to his fellow nominees, acknowledging their contributions and friendship.
Acknowledgements and Appreciation
Coogler thanked Warner Bros., the cast, and crew of Sinners, calling them all “winners in his book.” He also dedicated the award to his wife, Zinzi Evans, their three children, and his parents, expressing his love and appreciation for their support.
Coogler’s Career and ‘Sinners’ Impact
This Oscar win represents a significant milestone in Coogler’s career, marking his first Academy Award after four previous nominations, including a Best Picture nomination for Judas and the Black Messiah in 2021. Sinners, starring Michael B. Jordan, is described as a “blockbuster horror flick” and has garnered significant attention for its unique blend of horror and historical themes.
Looking Ahead
Even as Sinners has a strong showing at the Oscars, with 16 nominations, it currently holds a 11% chance of winning Best Picture, trailing behind Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another, which has an 89% probability according to betting markets on Kalshi.