Golden Globes 2026: Owen Cooper becomes the youngest TV Supporting Actor winner at 16. Adolescence star shares how he stays grounded

Owen Cooper becomes the youngest actor ever to win a Golden Globe, Emmy and Critics' Choice awards back-to-back in a full sweep. For the actor, the past year has brought something far less ordinary, global recognition, major awards, and a place in Golden Globes history. Yet, despite the spotlight, the 16-year-old actor insists life hasn’t changed as dramatically as one might expect.

Owen Cooper scripts history at Golden Globes 2026

Owen Cooper, who rose to fame with Netflix’s Adolescence, has been open about how he manages sudden success. After winning Best Supporting Actor at the 2026 Critics' Choice Awards, the young star said his family and close friends play a crucial role in keeping him grounded. Speaking to reporters, he shared that returning to school after the series premiered felt surprisingly normal. According to him, staying in familiar spaces and being around people who treat him the same has helped him remain true to himself.



He added that having a strong support system gives him a sense of protection, making it easier to stay focused and keep his feet firmly on the ground, even as accolades continue to come his way

That grounded mindset was on full display at the 83rd Golden Globe Awards, where Owen Cooper made history by winning Best Supporting Actor on Television. At just 16, he became the youngest-ever winner in the category, surpassing the previous record held by Glee star Chris Colfer, who was 20 when he won in 2010. The achievement also made Cooper the second-youngest male Golden Globe winner of all time, after Ricky Schroder, who won at age nine in 1980.

Taking the stage to accept the award, Cooper admitted the moment felt surreal. In his speech, he thanked his family for standing by him throughout what he described as an incredible journey. He also looked back on his early acting days, revealing that he was once the only boy in his drama class, an experience he found awkward at the time but ultimately formative. Cooper told the audience he is still learning every day, especially from the seasoned actors around him.

More about Adolescence actor Owen Cooper

Adolescence, which has quickly become an awards-season favourite, follows the intense story of Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a teenage classmate. Cooper’s portrayal of Jamie marked his breakout role and earned widespread critical acclaim for its emotional depth and maturity.


Beyond the Golden Globes, Cooper has already built an impressive awards resume. He made history at the Emmys as the youngest-ever male acting winner, taking home the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. He has also won at the Critics’ Choice Awards and the Gotham TV Awards and received nominations from SAG-AFTRA.

The series itself has enjoyed remarkable success, collecting multiple nominations and wins across major ceremonies, including the Golden Globes and Emmys. With its powerful storytelling and standout performances, Adolescence has cemented its place as one of the most talked-about shows of the year. Stay tuned!