Sebastian Stan, known widely for his roles within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has recently garnered significant acclaim for his performance in the film A Different Man, currently streaming exclusively on HBO and MAX. Directed by Aaron Schimberg and produced by A24, A Different Man is celebrated as one of 2024's best films, having premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 2024, and later released theatrically on September 20, 2024.
Starring alongside Adam Pearson, Renate Reinsve, and Miles G. Jackson, Stan portrays Edward, a socially awkward aspiring actor plagued by neurofibromatosis—a rare condition causing disfigured facial features. The storyline follows Edward as he undergoes radical surgery to transform his appearance, only to find out later, years later, he has been immortalized as the subject of his love interest's play.
The film has received high praise from critics, with Daniel Feinberg of The Hollywood Reporter calling it "an amusing and thought-provoking face-off." Meanwhile, Jocelyn Noveck from the Associated Press asserted, "It's an absorbing ride, and Schimberg works with confidence and brio. On top of this, his cast is so darned good, you want the story to go on and on." Not all reviews are glowing, though; Adrain Horton of The Guardian described the film as "a slog," criticizing its portrayal of darkness as mistaken insight. Nevertheless, audiences are intrigued, and Stan's characterization seems poised to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Adding to the buzz, Stan recently took home the Golden Globe for Best Actor, Comedy or Musical, for his role as Edward. This win has positioned him firmly within the Oscars conversation, with many seeking to determine if he might clinch one of the five coveted nominations for Best Actor. Stan is currently considered either fifth or sixth within the Oscars ranking system—a fierce competition as he vies for acknowledgment alongside other Golden Globe winners like Adrien Brody and Timothée Chalamet.
Despite his recent accolades, the road to the Oscars is perilous. Notably missing from the SAG nomination roster was Stan, who had been nominated for both A Different Man and his role as Donald Trump within The Apprentice. The double snub could potentially hinder his momentum as the awards season progresses, alongside the unpredictable nature of industry politics.
The 97th Academy Awards set for March 2, 2025, loom ever closer, and the stakes are high for the nominated actors. Stan's portrayal of Trump, which also earned him recognition, has positioned him as one to watch closely. With recent analyses predicting multiple possible scenarios, the fluctuance of the race could mean ups and downs leading right up to the ceremony.
While his career appears to be flourishing, Stan's personal life has also seen notable developments. Since at least May 2022, he has been linked romantically to actress Annabelle Wallis, known for her role on Peaky Blinders. Though neither has publicly discussed their relationship, Wallis has remained a constant presence, appearing at Stan's recent movie premieres and celebrating his 40th birthday last August—an event attended by friends including Chace Crawford.
Highlights of their relationship timeline show how the pair has grown closer over the past couple of years. They first sparked dating rumors following Robert Pattinson's birthday party, where they were caught sharing a kiss—an image later deleted but not before capturing the public's interest. Since then, they've been seen enjoying quiet dinners and sharing tender moments, reinforcing speculation of their commitment to one another.
By June 2023, they were spotted having lunch together with Lily James, and by February of this year, Wallis was present at the Berlin Film Festival following the screening of Stan's film, A Different Man. They continue to evade the public eye, opting for shared lunches and private gatherings rather than red carpet appearances, showcasing their desire for privacy within their developing romance.
Overall, Sebastian Stan seems on the cusp of significant professional accolades this award season, poised for potential Oscar recognition, all the meanwhile balancing his blossoming relationship with Annabelle Wallis. Fans and critics alike eagerly await the announcements of nominations and the continuing development of both his career and personal life.