For the First Time in History: A Russian Actor Nominated for an Oscar

In this handout photo provided by The Academy, (L-R) Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott present the nominees for Actor in a Supporting Role onstage during the 97th Oscars Nominations Announcement at Samuel Goldwyn Theater on January 23, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. Al Seib/The Academy via /AFP

Russian actor Yuri Borisov has made history as the first Russian to be nominated for an Academy Award in the category of Best Supporting Actor.

Borisov received the nomination for his role in the American film Anora, directed by Sean Baker.

Speaking to TASS, Borisov expressed his gratitude and disbelief at the nomination. "I am very happy, and of course, it is difficult to fully process this at the moment," he said, extending thanks to everyone who supported him throughout the journey.

Anora, a comedy-drama set in New York, premiered in 2024 at the Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Palme d'Or. In the film, Borisov plays Igor, a guard, in a story that explores themes of resilience and belonging. The nomination marks a significant milestone for Borisov and a historic moment for Russian cinema on the global stage.