On the morning the 2023 Oscar nominations were announced, Miles Caton woke to life-changing news: his film Sinners had set a new record with 16 nominations, surpassing iconic movies like Titanic, La La Land, and All About Eve. Caton, a newcomer from Brooklyn, New York, found himself at the center of the most talked-about cinematic achievement. His journey from making a single audition tape to being the breakout star in a nomination juggernaut is a remarkable transformation in a matter of years.
Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler, explores the lives of 1930s gangster twins Smoke and Stack, portrayed by Michael B. Jordan. The film’s emotional core is Sammie, played by Caton, a teenage cousin caught in the dark turmoil of their hometown. Sammie, a preacher’s son and blues guitarist, carries a voice so compelling it stops conversations in their tracks. Caton’s raw and emotional performance as Sammie has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, contributing to the film’s sweeping success.
Miles Caton’s Unconventional Path to Stardom
Before his acting debut, Caton’s experience was limited to a small church play. Yet, his artistic journey began years earlier as a viral sensation when a childhood cover of Nina Simone’s Feeling Good caught Jay-Z’s attention and was sampled on the rapper’s album 4:44. Following this exposure, Caton appeared on the talent show Little Big Shots, hosted by Steve Harvey.
His teenage years were defined by balancing school with an intense music career. Touring internationally as one of H.E.R.’s backing vocalists, Caton performed at prestigious events such as the New Orleans Jazz Festival and Global Citizen Live in Paris. He even managed to attend his senior prom and graduation amidst his busy schedule. These experiences laid a foundation that eventually drew the interest of Hollywood casting agents.
While on tour with Coldplay during their Music of the Spheres tour, Caton was scouted by a CAA agent and soon entered the audition process for Sinners. After multiple callbacks, director Ryan Coogler personally contacted him from an Oakland area code, launching Caton’s career into a new orbit.
The Impact of Mentorship from Ryan Coogler
Ryan Coogler played a pivotal role as a mentor throughout Caton’s rapid ascent. Caton praises Coogler not only for his creative direction but also for his genuine kindness and generosity, which set a profound example. This mentorship inspired Caton to sharpen his talents across music, acting, and broader creative pursuits.
“Seeing the way he works, seeing how he treats people, was the first major thing that stood out to me,”
Caton reflects.
“He’s an extremely kind and generous person. And it’s really who he is — it’s not a front. I think that’s what makes people want to work with him, and what makes his films so special.”
Coogler’s detailed approach and strong work ethic continue to motivate Caton.
“Seeing his work ethic, his attention to detail, the knowledge he has — that definitely made me want to sharpen my tools,”
Caton explains.
“In music, in acting, in creativity in general. Knowledge is power, and I think that’s something he really exudes.”
During the hectic awards season, Coogler has provided guidance, encouraging Caton to remain grounded and focused.
“He’s just been giving me advice throughout this press run — to stay grateful, to lock in with my team, to make sure I have a good support system who understands my vision and knows where I want to go,”
Caton says.
“So it’s been a lot of support from him.”
Sinners’ Record-Breaking Accolades and Industry Impact
Sinners has become an awards powerhouse, with 16 Oscar nominations alongside 13 BAFTAs, six Grammys, and five Actor Award (formerly SAG Awards) nominations. This unprecedented level of recognition places the film and Caton at the forefront of this awards season’s buzz. For Caton personally, the multiple nominations and awards mark an extraordinary shift from his early performances in small venues and viral videos to international acclaim.
Caton has also been nominated for the EE Rising Star award at the BAFTAs, an accolade that previous winners such as Tom Hardy, Daniel Kaluuya, Kristen Stewart, and Tom Holland have used as a launchpad for illustrious careers. The nomination brings both pride and a heightened sense of vulnerability, as Caton acknowledges the emotional risk of sharing one’s creative work with the world.
“You can’t dictate how people are going to feel about your art. So just see the recognition and to see that people love it and respected, and appreciated it that always is like a extra boost of confidence and like just a great feeling.”
Support Among Rising Stars Amidst the Awards Season
Throughout the awards season, Caton has found solidarity with fellow EE Rising Star nominees, including British actors Archie Madekwe, Robert Aramayo, Posy Sterling, and American nominee Chase Infiniti. These peers provide a supportive environment during an intense and sometimes overwhelming period.
“I mean, she’s had an amazing year as well,”
Caton says of Infiniti, who also earned a Best Actress nomination.
“And we’ve kind of just been supporting each other, cheering each other on. And it’s been amazing to be able to have peers in this award season… It can be hectic, it can be crazy. So that people who are kind of going through it with you, is cool.”
Exciting Future Projects and Uncertain Possibilities
Looking ahead, attention has already turned to Ryan Coogler’s upcoming Black Panther sequel, set for release in 2028. Caton, a lifelong superhero fan, has yet to confirm if he will be involved in the project but remains open to the opportunity.
“Hey, I don’t know what’s going on,”
he laughs. “But I’m always ready.”
Alongside his acting career, Caton continues to pursue music passionately. After releasing his single Somethin’ in late 2025, he is currently finishing an EP and has a tour planned later this year. His dream role includes portraying legendary singer Sam Cooke in a biopic, reflecting his deep connection to music and performance art.
“I’m just following my heart,” he says.
“Music and acting are both rising at the same time. I feel lucky I don’t have to choose.”
Surreal Encounters with Celebrities Fuel Caton’s Inspiration
Even as his career rockets forward, Caton is still absorbing the surreal nature of mingling with idols who once felt untouchable. He has met and spoken with stars like Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Chris Brown at prestigious gatherings. These interactions highlight the rapid and extraordinary shifts in Caton’s world.
“I spoke to Tom Cruise at the Governor Awards,”
Caton recalls.
“He told me I did a great job in the film. I spoke to Leonardo DiCaprio. I just met Chris Brown at the Louis Vuitton show. I met Stevie Wonder at a show I performed with Alice Smith. These are people I’ve been inspired by musically and creatively — just being around them is crazy.”
The artist’s presence at exclusive events such as Pharrell Williams’ Louis Vuitton show in Paris signals how far he has come from his early days as a young performer.
Preparing for London and Taking Time to Appreciate Success
Despite the whirlwind, Caton plans to take time to savor career milestones. As the youngest star in the highest-nominated Oscar film, he is traveling to London for the BAFTAs next month with a simple but heartfelt plan: to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, a favorite of his since childhood.
“I want to go to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,”
he smiles.
“I love Harry Potter, so I want to see it.”
As voting for the EE BAFTA Rising Star award continues, Caton’s story exemplifies the blend of talent, mentorship, and perseverance that shapes today’s most compelling stars at the forefront of entertainment.
