16 Oscar Nominated Actors and Actresses for Their Roles as Musicians (& Winners Included)

2025 Oscars Nominations: Celebrating Actors Portraying Iconic Musicians

The 2025 Academy Awards nominations have unveiled a remarkable roster of talent, prominently featuring Timothée Chalamet, who received acclaim for his portrayal of American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan in the musical drama A Complete Unknown. This film delves into Dylan’s nascent journey during the 1960s, chronicling his arrival in New York City, his aspirations to achieve musical greatness, and the challenges he encountered, including a notorious backlash at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival.

Critics have lauded A Complete Unknown for its engaging narrative and powerful performances, particularly highlighting Chalamet’s ability to embody the essence of Bob Dylan. The film not only garnered eight Oscar nominations, including the prestigious Best Picture, but also earned Chalamet his second nomination for Best Actor, potentially breaking a long-standing record. His nomination places him among a distinguished group of actors recognized for their portrayals of musical legends.

Notable Nominations for Portrayals of Musicians

1. Larry Parks as Al Jolson (Nominated)

In 1946’s The Jolson Story, directed by Alfred E. Green, Larry Parks brought to life the remarkable career of Al Jolson, whose transition from stage performer to the star of the first sound film, The Jazz Singer, is depicted. Although the film faced some criticism for its dramatized take on Jolson’s life, Parks’s portrayal earned him his first and only Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

2. Susan Hayward as Jane Froman (Nominated)

Susan Hayward portrayed Jane Froman in With a Song in My Heart (1951), a film showcasing Froman’s ascent to fame and her resilience following a devastating plane crash. This performance garnered Hayward her third Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

3. Susan Hayward as Lillian Roth (Nominated)

In I’ll Cry Tomorrow (1955), adapted from Roth’s autobiography, Hayward depicted the singer’s rise to fame alongside her harrowing battle with alcoholism. Hayward’s dedication to the role secured her fourth Oscar nomination and a win at the Cannes Film Festival, marking a notable chapter in her illustrious career.

4. Diana Ross as Billie Holiday (Nominated)

Directed by Sidney J. Furie, Lady Sings the Blues (1972) features Diana Ross in her debut role, portraying the tumultuous life of jazz icon Billie Holiday. Ross’s interpretation was met with critical acclaim, securing her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

5. Gary Busey as Buddy Holly (Nominated)

In The Buddy Holly Story (1978), Gary Busey portrayed the rock legend, illustrating his early career and musical achievements. Busey’s performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, solidifying the role as a career highlight.

6. Sissy Spacek as Loretta Lynn (Won)

Coal Miner’s Daughter (1979) chronicles the life of the iconic country singer Loretta Lynn, played by Sissy Spacek, who won an Oscar for her portrayal. Spacek’s deep commitment to capturing Lynn’s essence established her as a powerful force in film.

7. Jessica Lange as Patsy Cline (Nominated)

In Sweet Dreams (1985), Jessica Lange takes on the role of country star Patsy Cline, depicting her rise amidst personal hardships. Though the film faced scrutiny for inaccuracies, Lange’s performance remains highly regarded and earned her an Oscar nomination.

8. Angela Bassett as Tina Turner (Nominated)

In What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993), Angela Bassett starred as Tina Turner, showcasing the singer’s formidable journey from obscurity in St. Louis to stardom. Bassett’s intense preparation for the role culminated in an Oscar nomination, underscoring her dedication to the character.

9. Laurence Fishburne as Ike Turner (Nominated)

Also in What’s Love Got to Do with It, Laurence Fishburne portrayed Ike Turner, further enhancing the film’s emotional depth. His powerful performance earned him an Oscar nomination as well, showcasing the complexities of their relationship.

10. Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles (Won)

In Ray (2004), Jamie Foxx delivered an Oscar-winning portrayal of the legendary musician Ray Charles. The film chronicles Charles’s rise despite immense challenges, and Foxx’s immersion into the role earned widespread critical acclaim.

11. Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash (Nominated)

The story of Johnny Cash’s life is compellingly depicted in Walk the Line (2005), where Phoenix’s performance as Cash garnered significant praise and an Oscar nomination, reflecting his intricate understanding of the musician’s struggles and successes.

12. Reese Witherspoon as June Carter Cash (Won)

Reese Witherspoon’s vibrant portrayal of June Carter in Walk the Line (2005) earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, highlighting Carter’s pivotal role in Cash’s life and the couple’s enduring legacy.

13. Marion Cotillard as Édith Piaf (Won)

In La Vie en Rose (2007), Marion Cotillard captivated audiences with her portrayal of French singer Édith Piaf, earning the Best Actress Oscar and making history as the first actress to win for a role in a French-language film.

14. Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury (Won)

Rami Malek’s portrayal of Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) not only won him an Oscar but also showcased Mercury’s electrifying journey with Queen, despite the film facing some criticism over historical accuracy.

15. Andra Day as Billie Holiday (Nominated)

In The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021), Andra Day’s striking performance sheds light on Holiday’s battles against systemic oppression and addiction, earning her critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination.

16. Austin Butler as Elvis Presley (Nominated)

Elvis (2022) offers a deep dive into the life of the legendary performer, with Austin Butler receiving accolades for his portrayal. His performance garnered an Oscar nomination and resonated with both audiences and critics alike.

Sources: The New York Times, Roger Ebert, Washington Post, Backstage, Vulture, The Guardian, CNN, Observer, Empire

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