British actor Owen Cooper made awards history on Sunday by becoming the youngest-ever recipient of a Golden Globe Award at just 16 years old.
Cooper won Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role on Television for his breakout performance as Jamie Miller in Adolescence. The win marked a remarkable achievement for the teenager in what was his debut screen role.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Cooper thanked those who supported him throughout his early acting journey. “Standing here with a Golden Globe does not feel real whatsoever,” he said. “It’s been an incredible journey for me and my family.”
He reflected on taking a chance on acting despite uncertainty and nerves. Cooper shared that he enrolled in drama classes despite feeling out of place. He said he was often the only boy in the class and found the experience embarrassing at first, but he pushed through and continued learning.
“I’m still very much an apprentice,” Cooper told the audience. “I’m learning every day from the people who inspire me and challenge me.”
At just 16 years old, Owen Cooper is the winner of a Golden Globe for his role in Adolescence👏 #GoldenGlobes pic.twitter.com/bgcQPupask
— Golden Globes (@goldenglobes) January 12, 2026He also acknowledged Netflix for casting him in Adolescence, before closing his speech on an optimistic note. “Bring on 2026,” he said. “You’ll never walk alone.”
Cooper faced strong competition in the category, including Billy Crudup, Walton Goggins, Jason Isaacs, Tramell Tillman, and Ashley Walters.
Following his historic win, Cooper is set to make his feature film debut as a young Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights, which is scheduled for release on February 14. His rapid rise signals the arrival of a major new talent in British cinema.
