“Hailee at home, she’s getting ready to have the baby right now,” said Michael B. Jordan during his acceptance speech for Best Actor at the 2026 Oscars. This heartfelt mention highlighted the absence of Hailee Steinfeld, who is pregnant with her first child and nearing her due date. Steinfeld did not attend the ceremony, where her film Sinners was nominated for a record-breaking 16 Oscars, the most for a single film in the history of the Academy Awards.
The 2026 Oscars took place on March 15, just two days after Steinfeld shared her pride in Sinners through her newsletter, Beau Society. The film has been a major box office hit and an awards season favorite, having recently won Best Ensemble Cast at the Actor Awards earlier in March. Steinfeld’s absence was felt, especially considering her significant contributions to the film, which is considered a frontrunner for Best Picture.
Steinfeld, who debuted her baby bump at the Golden Globes in January 2026, has been navigating her pregnancy while also reflecting on her career. In her newsletter, she expressed, “I know there is no one single particular moment that can encapsulate what this filming experience meant to me.” This sentiment resonates with her fans and colleagues alike, as she has been a prominent figure in the industry since her Oscar nomination for True Grit in 2011.
Despite her absence from the Oscars, Steinfeld’s influence was palpable. Michael B. Jordan’s acknowledgment of her situation during his speech served as a reminder of the personal milestones that often accompany professional achievements. Her husband, NFL quarterback Josh Allen, was also unable to attend the Golden Globes due to a playoff game, further underscoring the couple’s busy schedules during this significant time in their lives.
In a recent profile with ELLE, Steinfeld praised director Ryan Coogler, stating, “He’s the most phenomenal listener,” highlighting the collaborative spirit that characterized the making of Sinners. This film not only showcases her talent but also her ability to connect with influential figures in Hollywood.
As the awards season progresses, the anticipation surrounding Sinners continues to grow. With 16 nominations at the Oscars, the film stands out as a remarkable achievement in cinematic storytelling. Observers are keenly watching to see how it performs on the big night, especially in the Best Picture category.
While details remain unconfirmed regarding Steinfeld’s future appearances at award shows, her focus on family and impending motherhood is clear. As she prepares for this new chapter in her life, fans and colleagues alike are eager to see how she balances her career and personal life moving forward.
