Ethan Hawke has earned his first Academy Award nomination for best actor for his role as lyricist Lorenz Hart in Richard Linklater's 'Blue Moon.' The film, a project developed over a decade with Hawke's longtime collaborator, premiered at the Berlin Film Festival last year. Hawke credits their deep friendship and shared passion for theater as key to the role.
Ethan Hawke, a veteran actor with decades in film, has secured his inaugural lead actor Oscar nomination for portraying Lorenz Hart in 'Blue Moon,' directed by Richard Linklater. The nomination highlights a collaboration rooted in their mutual appreciation for theater. Hawke first encountered the script over 10 years ago, after Linklater attended one of his plays, fostering a bond that shaped the project.
In preparation, Hawke delved into the world of Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart's musical theater. He gathered biographies and listened to interpretations of their songs by artists such as Chet Baker and Bob Dylan, allowing time to build his understanding without haste. 'I felt happy that I’ve been able to dream about it for 10 years,' Hawke remarked. 'I didn’t have to rush to be ready.'
'Blue Moon' debuted at the Berlin Film Festival a year prior to the 2026 awards season and has since garnered a dedicated audience. Hawke returned to Berlin amid the height of awards events, expressing gratitude for the film's recognition. 'It’s so hard to penetrate the zeitgeist right now without a tremendous amount of money in advertising,' he said. 'When that happens, you kind of feel this wash of gratitude of being really lucky.'
Reflecting on the craft of acting, Hawke drew from influences like his late friend Philip Seymour Hoffman, emphasizing balance in approach. 'You have to walk a razor’s edge of feeling like it’s the most important thing in the world,' he noted, 'and simultaneously treat it like it’s a game that is so much fun to play.' He also cited Uta Hagen’s 'Respect for Acting' and Sidney Lumet’s 'Making Movies' as essential guides.
The experience left Hawke appreciating the support from co-stars Andrew Scott, Margaret Qualley, and Robert Capelli Jr., but most notably Linklater's steadfast friendship. 'Rick’s unflagging friendship,' Hawke said. 'That’s what I take away.'
