Mckenna Grace Brings Pokémon Cards to the Oscars 2026

The 19-year-old actress showed off her rare Pokémon cards on the red carpet.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:35pm

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Mckenna Grace, the 19-year-old actress known for her roles in shows like Young Sheldon, attended the Oscars 2026 with her Regretting You costar Mason Thames. During her red carpet interview, Grace revealed that she had brought some of her rare Pokémon cards, including a Lillie's Fairy Ex, and was planning to try and open them at the event. Grace is an avid Pokémon collector, with four binders full of cards in her bedroom.

Why it matters

Grace's decision to bring her Pokémon cards to the prestigious Oscars ceremony highlights the growing popularity and mainstream acceptance of the Pokémon franchise, especially among younger generations. It also showcases Grace's unique personality and interests beyond just acting.

The details

During her red carpet interview, Grace told Entertainment Tonight that she had been talking with her costar Mason Thames about her love of Pokémon cards and wanted to try and be the first person to open them at the Oscars. She showed off a rare Lillie's Fairy Ex card to Thames, who confirmed their romance earlier this year. Grace teased that she might be interested in trading some of her golden Pokémon cards with other fans, but also said she might keep them for herself.

  • Mckenna Grace attended the Oscars 2026 on March 15.

The players

Mckenna Grace

A 19-year-old actress known for her roles in shows like Young Sheldon, who attended the Oscars 2026 and brought her collection of rare Pokémon cards with her.

Mason Thames

Mckenna Grace's Regretting You costar, who confirmed his romance with Grace earlier this year and was with her at the Oscars 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Wait, wait, wait! You wanna see what's in my pockets? So, Mason and I were talking, and I was like, 'I'm really into Pokémon cards. I want to try and be the first person to open Pokémon cards at the Oscars.' That's my plan tonight. I already snuck one over to Mason.”

— Mckenna Grace, Actress

“Maybe, we'll see. I might keep them for myself.”

— Mckenna Grace, Actress

The takeaway

Mckenna Grace's decision to bring her Pokémon card collection to the Oscars 2026 showcases the growing mainstream popularity of the franchise, especially among younger generations. It also highlights Grace's unique personality and interests beyond just acting, making her a relatable and engaging public figure.