Margot Robbie was left without an Oscar nomination for her electrifying performance in Babylon, a decision that has fueled passionate reactions across Hollywood and among fans since the Academy Award nominations were announced. In Damien Chazelle’s ambitious look at 1920s Hollywood, Robbie took on the challenging role of Nellie LaRoy, an up-and-coming actress fighting for recognition during the turbulent transition from silent films to sound. The absence of her name among the Oscar nominees has sparked widespread debate about the complexities and perceived oversights in this year’s awards season, as well as a deeper conversation about how transformative performances can sometimes be overlooked.
Babylon, released in 2022, tasked Margot Robbie with perhaps one of her boldest roles yet. Taking on Nellie LaRoy, Robbie immersed herself in the chaos and allure of early Hollywood, delivering a character marked by ambition, vulnerability, and an intense emotional spectrum. Her ability to capture the duality of a woman seeking stardom, while fighting personal demons amid the excess and disorder of the time, stood out as a triumph of acting skill and commitment.
Critics and audiences noted the dramatic impact of Margot Robbie’s performance almost immediately. While Babylon itself drew mixed reviews—reflected in its 57% rating on Rotten Tomatoes—Robbie’s work drew consistent praise. Many fans, disappointed with the Academy’s decision to overlook her, turned to social media to express support.
one user wrote, echoing the persistent belief that her talent was especially evident in pivotal moments throughout the film. Such reactions have prompted renewed scrutiny of how the Academy approaches films that divide critical opinion, and whether stand-out performances get the acknowledgment they deserve.
Despite nominations at the Critics’ Choice Awards and Golden Globes, Babylon fell short of earning major recognition at the Oscars, with Margot Robbie’s omission from the Best Actress category standing out as a particularly significant loss. Many in the industry suggest that the film’s polarizing nature—applauded by some for its extravagant storytelling, criticized by others for its chaotic pacing—ultimately harmed its awards prospects. This meant that even the strongest work within the film struggled to rise above the general noise surrounding its release, making Robbie’s exclusion feel even more impactful.
Margot Robbie’s career has been marked by a series of ambitious, varied roles that highlight her versatility, but her turn in Babylon stood apart, both for its complexity and the emotional risk involved. Working alongside Brad Pitt and under Damien Chazelle’s direction, Robbie brought a raw energy to Nellie LaRoy that elevated both the character and the wider film. She portrayed Nellie’s optimism, determination, and eventual descent with a level of authenticity that resonated even with those who found the film divisive overall. Robbie’s transformation was so impressive that fans and critics alike continued to celebrate her work, regardless of Academy recognition.
one critic remarked. This acknowledgment underscores how Margot Robbie lent both heart and complexity to Babylon, helping define the emotional stakes that drove the film forward. The role of Nellie LaRoy didn’t just add an emotional center to the sprawling narrative—it also confirmed Robbie’s ongoing willingness to tackle unconventional and demanding characters, further cementing her reputation in Hollywood.
Babylon’s divisive critical reception and underwhelming box office did not dampen the strength of Margot Robbie’s performance, which many now view as a defining moment in her career. The Oscar snub, while disheartening to many supporters, has nonetheless sparked continued discussion around award processes and the factors that contribute to recognition for outstanding work. As Babylon continues to reach new audiences via streaming platforms, the conversation about Robbie’s place in Hollywood—and how the industry values bold, innovative performances—remains as heated and passionate as ever.
In the end, the impact of Margot Robbie’s Oscar snub reaches far beyond a single awards ceremony. The decision has inspired reflection on the relationship between critical consensus, individual achievement, and lasting legacy within Hollywood. For viewers and fans, her tour-de-force as Nellie LaRoy serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with fearless commitment and undeniable talent. As the film industry continues to evolve, the discussion ignited by Robbie’s omission is likely to influence conversations about recognition and merit for many seasons to come.
