Actor reflects on first Oscar nod, mentors, and modern fears

A long road to Oscar recognition

February 21, 2026 – Stellan Skarsgård is reflecting on his first Oscar nomination, calling it both surreal and validating after decades of work across European and Hollywood cinema. The actor suggested the recognition feels less like an arrival and more like a quiet acknowledgment of a career built on risk, patience, and unconventional choices.
A moment earned.

Image Credit: Kristina Bumphrey/WWD

Lessons from Robin Williams

Looking back, Skarsgård credited Robin Williams with shaping his understanding of generosity on set. He recalled Williams as instinctively kind and deeply present, noting that true talent, in his experience, often comes with humility rather than ego.
A lasting influence.

Image Credit: AP Images/Invision

The Lars von Trier years

Skarsgård also addressed his long and sometimes controversial collaborations with Lars von Trier, describing the filmmaker as provocative but artistically fearless. He said their work together demanded emotional exposure, but also produced some of the most challenging and meaningful performances of his career.
Creative tension.

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Why AI doesn’t scare him

While many in Hollywood warn that artificial intelligence threatens creativity, Skarsgård disagrees. He argued that fear, conformity, and commercial cowardice pose far greater risks to storytelling than technology ever could.
Perspective matters.

Image Credit: Universal Studios/Everett Collection

Final thoughts

From his first Oscar nomination to his reflections on mentors and modern anxieties, Skarsgård’s outlook is clear: cinema is only endangered when artists stop taking chances — not when tools evolve.

FAQs

Q1: Is this Stellan Skarsgård’s first Oscar nomination?
Yes, it marks his first Academy Award nomination.

Q2: What did he say about Robin Williams?
He praised Williams’ kindness and generosity on set.

Q3: How does he describe working with Lars von Trier?
As challenging, provocative, and creatively demanding.

Q4: Why isn’t he worried about AI in film?
He believes fear and safe storytelling are bigger threats.

Q5: What defines his career approach?
Taking artistic risks over pursuing comfort or trends.