Hollywood’s biggest stars descended on Beverly Hills for the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, turning the Beverly Hilton into a dazzling showcase of fashion, talent, and a healthy dose of playful speculation. While the night celebrated the best in film and television, much of the buzz on January 11 centered around Damson Idris—Formula One movie star and the latest name to be swept up in the perennial guessing game over who will be the next James Bond.
According to E! News, Damson Idris addressed the swirling rumors head-on as he arrived on the red carpet. Dressed in a classic black suit and bow tie, the 34-year-old British actor was quick to set the record straight, telling Justin Sylvester, "It's definitely not true, it's just a rumor." Despite firmly denying any official connection to the iconic spy role, Idris was gracious about the attention, calling it an honor to be considered. "All these roles are superb and I think it's a testament to a young artist to be given that compliment," he explained, acknowledging the significance of being part of the conversation.
Idris was also quick to note he’s not the only one to have his name thrown into the Bond hat over the years. "There's been many artists before me—Idris Elba, my big brother, and many artists today," he said, referencing the ongoing public debate that has included a host of prominent British actors. "So I think it's just a testament saying that we're doing a good job and have people see us." His humility and sense of camaraderie with fellow actors was evident, making it clear he sees the speculation as a collective badge of honor for Black British talent in Hollywood.
But Bond rumors weren’t the only thing on Idris’s mind. The actor revealed his admiration for Wunmi Mosaku, whose performance in the film Sinners has captivated audiences and critics alike. "I'm in love with Wunmi right now," Idris confessed, adding, "Her performance in Sinners is superb. I ran into her a bunch of times—that's definitely someone I want to work with." The Golden Globes, it seems, aren’t just a celebration of past achievements—they’re fertile ground for future collaborations.
Idris’s own achievements were in the spotlight as well. He co-starred alongside Brad Pitt in the high-octane racing film F1, which was nominated for both Best Score Motion Picture and Best Cinematic and Box Office Achievement at this year’s Golden Globes. Reflecting on the experience, Idris told E! he was "super, super fortunate" to work with Pitt and the rest of the cast. Not one to miss a chance for a little friendly ribbing, he quipped, "Brad ain't here today, but I came personally to say I'm faster than him driving Formula One cars." It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated the night: a blend of reverence and irreverence, with stars both celebrating each other and not taking themselves too seriously.
The red carpet itself was a spectacle, with the world’s fashion media zeroing in on every detail. According to USA Today, the 2026 Golden Globes saw a parade of A-listers showcasing a dizzying array of designer looks. Jennifer Lopez wowed in vintage Jean-Louis Scherrer paired with Christian Louboutin shoes, while Dakota Fanning donned Vivienne Westwood and Fred Leighton jewelry. The men brought their sartorial A-game, too—Orlando Bloom sported Berluti, and Glen Powell wore Brunello Cucinelli accented by an Omega watch.
Other notable appearances included Jennifer Lawrence in custom Givenchy and Sabyasachi jewelry, Hailee Steinfeld in Prada and Desert Diamonds from Repossi, Rose Byrne in Chanel, and Amanda Seyfried in Versace. Julia Roberts chose custom Armani Privé and Swarovski jewelry, while Ariana Grande made a statement in custom Vivienne Westwood and Swarovski. Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Nick Jonas coordinated in custom Christian Dior and Berluti, respectively, with Chopra Jonas’s look completed by Bvlgari jewelry. The array of styles—ranging from classic Hollywood glamour to bold, modern statements—underscored the enduring importance of the Golden Globes as a global fashion event.
Beyond the fashion and film, the evening was a who’s who of Hollywood royalty. The guest list, as detailed by USA Today, read like a roll call of the industry’s brightest: Leonardo DiCaprio, Emma Stone, Michael B. Jordan, Timothée Chalamet, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, Ana de Armas, Martin Short, Steve Martin, Oscar Isaac, Dwayne Johnson, Jenna Ortega, Sarah Snook, Benicio del Toro, and Orlando Bloom, just to name a few. Couples like Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons, Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon, and John Krasinski and Emily Blunt walked the carpet together, adding to the sense of a close-knit—if dazzling—community.
Wunmi Mosaku, the actress who so impressed Damson Idris, made her own memorable appearance in a Matthew Reisman Collection gown and Messika High Jewelry. Her presence, along with so many other talented performers, highlighted a new era of diversity and creativity in Hollywood. The red carpet wasn’t just about established legends—it was also about rising stars like Ayo Edebiri in Chanel, Abby Elliott in Valentino, and Teyana Taylor in custom Schiaparelli Haute Couture and Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
As the night wore on, the Golden Globes once again proved themselves not just a celebration of cinematic achievement, but a reflection of the industry’s evolving culture. Damson Idris’s Bond rumors may be just that—rumors—but his attitude, generosity, and sense of humor were emblematic of the best of Hollywood. As he mingled with peers, praised fellow actors, and joked about his racing skills, he reminded everyone that, at its heart, the film world is about collaboration, inspiration, and a little bit of fun.
With the 2026 Golden Globes now in the rearview mirror, the spotlight will no doubt move on to the next big event, the next bold look, and yes, the next round of Bond speculation. But for one glittering night, Hollywood came together to celebrate itself—and to remind the world why we keep watching.
