Oscars: Stars' Journeys from Debut to Wins

0:00Reporting from The Daily News, Hollywood stars have long dazzled at the Academy Awards and a look back shows how many kicked off their journeys as fresh faces decades ago. At the 2026 Oscars, icons like Demi Moore peered much like she did in 1989 while others such as Nicole Kidman evolved. From supporting her husband Tom Cruise in 1991 to presenting Best Picture this year, several rising talents turn first time attendees into winners over time. Michael B. Jordan stepped out in 2014 for Fruitvale Station and claimed best actor in 2026 for centers. Leonardo DiCaprio nominated in 1994, finally one years later, though he missed out again this time. Veterans brought deep history to the red carpet. Barbara Streisand, who presented in 1968, returned to honor Robert Redford with a performance. Goldie Hahn, absent from her 1970 win, showed up with daughter Kate Hudson, herself a nominee.

1:01This year's event featured fresh faces and reunions, too. Timothy Schalamet, a 22-year-old nominee in 2018, competed again but lost to Jordan. Couples like Ed Harris and Amy Madigan celebrated her long-awaited win for weapons four decades after their debut. The Oscars continue to showcase enduring careers. From early risks in fashion and roles to major wins and tributes, proving Hollywood's love for the spotlight never fades. The Daily News Now is made possible with support from our sponsor. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds. Built for listening in bed, S-O-L-I, solelypillo.com.