Beverly Hills, January 12, 2026 — At the 83rd Annual Golden Globe Awards held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, 16-year-old British actor Owen Cooper achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the award for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role on Television. His victory for his breakout role in Netflix's psychological crime drama Adolescence marks him as the youngest-ever recipient in this category, surpassing the previous record held by Chris Colfer, who was 20 when he won for Glee in 2010.
Cooper, born on December 5, 2009, in Warrington, England, delivered an emotional and heartfelt acceptance speech that captivated the audience at the Beverly Hilton. Visibly overwhelmed, he expressed disbelief at the moment, saying it "didn’t feel real." He extended heartfelt thanks to his family, friends, and the entire team behind Adolescence, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his journey into acting.
In a poignant reflection on his early steps in the craft, Cooper shared how he overcame initial awkwardness by enrolling in drama classes despite being the only boy in attendance. "I took a risk by going to drama classes where I was the only boy—it was awkward, but it was worth it," he said, highlighting the courage required to pursue his passion amid potential peer pressure. This vulnerability resonated deeply, underscoring the personal growth that has defined his rapid rise.
The young star also emphasized humility amid the spotlight, describing himself as "still learning and growing" while crediting fellow actors who continue to inspire him daily. He concluded his speech on an uplifting note, referencing Liverpool Football Club's iconic anthem with a heartfelt "You'll never walk alone," before wishing everyone a good night and declaring, "Bring on 2026."
Adolescence, a Netflix limited series that premiered in 2025, follows the harrowing story of a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller (played by Cooper), accused of murdering a classmate. The series, created by Jack Thorne and co-starring Stephen Graham, explores themes of teenage identity, masculinity, online influence, social media pressures, and the complexities of modern youth. Shot in innovative single-take episodes for several sequences, it received widespread acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of societal issues, sparking global conversations about male toxicity, incel culture, and adolescent isolation.
Cooper's performance as Jamie Miller—a role that marked his professional acting debut—has been hailed as extraordinary. At just 14 during filming, he impressed co-creator and star Stephen Graham so profoundly that Graham reportedly turned to Thorne after Cooper's audition and said, "I think that's him." The series garnered multiple accolades, including four Golden Globes (Best Limited Series, acting wins for Cooper, Graham, and Erin Doherty), following its six Emmy wins in 2025, where Cooper also became the youngest male acting winner in Emmy history at 15.
This historic Golden Globe triumph cements Cooper's status as one of the most promising young talents in the industry. He now ranks as the second-youngest male Golden Globe winner overall, behind Ricky Schroder, who was 9 when he won in the former New Star of the Year category for The Champ in 1980. Industry observers note that Cooper's success at such a tender age highlights a shift toward recognizing authentic, youthful voices in storytelling, particularly in projects addressing contemporary social challenges.
The win has generated an outpouring of praise from peers, critics, and fans. Social media buzzed with congratulations, with many pointing to his grounded demeanor and exceptional talent. Cooper's journey from a local drama group in Warrington—co-founded by Coronation Street star Tina O'Brien—to international acclaim exemplifies the power of dedication and opportunity.
As Adolescence continues to dominate cultural discourse, Cooper's Golden Globe victory serves as a beacon for aspiring young performers. With his humility intact and a clear sense of ongoing growth, the 16-year-old is poised for an even brighter future. The entertainment world watches eagerly for his next project, as this breakout star redefines what is possible for actors of his generation.
