Golden Globe Awards 2026: Owen Cooper Wins Golden Globe At 16; Says 'It Does Not Feel Real'

Adolescence actor Owen Cooper has earned a Golden Globe for best supporting actor in a television role, becoming the youngest winner in that category. The 16-year-old’s victory at the Golden Globes 2026 also places Owen Cooper as the second-youngest male Golden Globe winner across all categories. Only Ricky Schroder remains younger in overall Golden Globe history. Schroder won new star of the year in 1980 at the age of 9 for The Champ. By overtaking Chris Colfer’s 2010 record for Glee, Cooper sets a new age benchmark in the supporting actor race.

Owen Cooper Golden Globes record and earlier Emmy milestone

The Golden Globe joins another major honour for Owen Cooper, who already holds an Emmy record. Cooper previously secured the Emmy for outstanding supporting actor in a limited or anthology series or movie. That win made Cooper the youngest-ever male acting winner in Emmy history.

Both awards recognise Cooper’s turn as Jamie Miller in the Netflix miniseries Adolescence. The role served as Cooper’s breakout performance, drawing attention from television viewers and awards voters. The Netflix series has gained strong recognition across multiple ceremonies, including this Golden Globes 2026 sweep.

Owen Cooper Golden Globes speech and early acting journey

On stage, the teenager appeared moved by the Golden Globes 2026 honour. "Standing here at the Golden Globes does not feel real whatsoever. What an incredible journey me and my family has been put through," Cooper said in his acceptance speech, drawing laughter from the audience. "We are forever grateful for what these people have done for me and my family."

Cooper reflected on starting out in drama class, where there were no other boys. During the Golden Globes 2026 speech, Cooper said being the only boy felt awkward. While "it was embarrassing," he said he "got through it." He added that he is "still learning every day," particularly from fellow actors in the room.

Owen Cooper Golden Globes category, rivals and series performance

The Golden Globes 2026 supporting actor television category contained several well-known names alongside Owen Cooper. Ashley Walters also represented Adolescence. Billy Crudup received a nomination for The Morning Show, while Jason Isaacs and Walton Goggins were recognised for The White Lotus. Tramell Tillman featured on the list for Severance.

Adolescence itself delivered a strong overall showing at the Golden Globes 2026, collecting five nominations. The Netflix series converted multiple nods into trophies. Cooper’s co-star Stephen Graham won best performance by a male actor in a limited series, anthology series or a motion picture made for television, adding further weight to the drama’s awards profile.

Erin Doherty added another acting prize for Adolescence at the Golden Globes 2026. Doherty took best performance by a female actor in a supporting role on television. The series also picked up best limited series, underlining how strongly voters responded to its storyline, performances and production across the television field.

With an Emmy and Golden Globes 2026 triumph already secured, Owen Cooper now holds two significant age records in major awards history. Supported by multiple wins for Adolescence and recognition for colleagues Stephen Graham and Erin Doherty, Cooper’s early career stands closely tied to the success of the Netflix limited series.