Jacob Elordi and Timothée Chalamet have been making headlines for different reasons. While one shows deep respect for artistic dedication, the other drew criticism for dismissing classical arts. As the Oscars ballots closed, this tension has hinted at a clash between public image and performance prestige that could sway the awards.

Jacob Elordi’s respect for ballet is now going viral, highlighting a stark contrast with Timothée Chalamet’s indifferent attitude toward the particular dance form.

“You know, my sister is a ballet dancer. She was my whole life. So she danced from when she was two till about 26,” Elordi said in a Variety and CNN Actors on Actors interview from December 2025. His comment came as a reply to Gwyneth Paltrow's praise for his physicality in Frankenstein, which seemed like ballet to her.

“I've grown up around that kind of movement. It definitely was like a reference point for sort of how to use your body. I've always been sort of enamored by ballet,” he added, showing genuine admiration for the discipline and artistry of the stage.

Meanwhile, Timothée Chalamet faced backlash after claiming ballet and opera no longer captivate audiences.

“I don’t want to be working in ballet, or opera, or things where it’s like, ‘Hey, keep this thing alive, even though like no one cares anymore,’” he said during a conversation with Matthew McConaughey at the University of Texas in February 2026.

His remarks sparked strong reactions from dancers, opera stars, and cultural commentators worldwide, and he later acknowledged their impact in the interview itself.

While Elordi earns praise for celebrating the arts, Chalamet’s remarks have quietly reshaped Oscar perceptions, hinting at a potential voting ripple.

Jacob Elordi and Timothée Chalamet face high stakes in the 98th Academy Awards

At the 98th Oscars, Jacob Elordi and Timothée Chalamet are in different categories, but public image now matters. Elordi, nominated for Best Supporting Actor in Frankenstein, is seen as the cultured and classy choice.

Chalamet, up for Best Actor in Marty Supreme, remains a frontrunner, but his ballet drama has opened the door for Michael B. Jordan to surge in the final vote count.

The Oscars take place Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre, with Conan O’Brien hosting. Red carpet arrivals begin at 6:30 PM ET, and the ceremony airs live on ABC at 7:00 PM ET. With ballots already closed as the high-arts debate peaked, both actors’ reputations could subtly sway outcomes in their respective races.

What are your thoughts on Jacob Elordi’s admiration versus Timothée Chalamet's backlash and how it could impact the Oscars? Let us know in the comments.

Written by

Shraddha Priyadarshi

Edited by

Adiba Nizami