Springfield native Ruth E. Carter keeps making Oscars history

Ahead of Sunday's ceremony, Carter talks Springfield, 'Seinfeld' — and the Massachusetts connection to 'Sinners' costumes.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 3:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With her latest Oscar nod, Ruth E. Carter becomes the most-nominated Black woman in Oscar history. The Springfield native has been nominated five times, including for her work on the film 'Sinners.' Carter has already made history as the first Black person to win multiple Academy Awards in any category.

Why it matters

Carter's continued success and recognition at the Oscars highlights the growing diversity and representation in the film industry, particularly in the often overlooked field of costume design. Her Massachusetts roots and connections also showcase the state's creative talent and contributions to the entertainment world.

The details

Ahead of the 98th Annual Academy Awards, Carter discussed her historic fifth Oscar nomination, her vision for the costumes in 'Sinners,' and her process of sourcing period garments from the Brimfield Antique Flea Marketplace in Massachusetts. Carter also shared how her early experiences in Springfield and at theater programs like Upward Bound and Uhuru Sasa fueled her passion for costume design, leading to her breakthrough work on films like 'Malcolm X' and 'Seinfeld.'

  • In 2019, Carter made history as the first Black person to win the Oscar for Best Costume Design.
  • In 2023, she became the first Black woman to win multiple Academy Awards in any category.

The players

Ruth E. Carter

A Springfield native who is the most-nominated Black woman in Oscar history, with five nominations, including for her work on the film 'Sinners.'

Denzel Washington

An acclaimed actor who Carter has worked with, including on the film 'Malcolm X.'

Jason Alexander

The actor who played George Costanza on 'Seinfeld,' and who Carter outfitted with the iconic George glasses.

Spike Lee

The acclaimed filmmaker who gave Carter her start in the film industry and encouraged her to gain experience on student film projects.

Ryan Coogler

The director of 'Black Panther,' which earned Carter an Oscar win for Best Costume Design.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't know if you really think about making history. You don't work for that. You work to make an impact.”

— Ruth E. Carter (boston.com)

“I love telling the African American diasporic identity. I like telling our story about how we embarked in this country, and created culture, and made something out of nothing.”

— Ruth E. Carter (boston.com)

“There's a lot of misconception about what a costume designer actually does — you'd be surprised at the amount of building and workroom activity. It's not like you go to a store and just buy stuff.”

— Ruth E. Carter (boston.com)

“I have my mom to thank for my storytelling, because she worked for the city in the '60s as a parapsychologist. It seems metaphysical, but she was more of a counselor. I know about people from my mother's empathy. She could see beyond the surface of a person. And that really does go into my work.”

— Ruth E. Carter (boston.com)

What’s next

If Carter wins the Oscar on Sunday, she will become the first Black person to win three Academy Awards in any category.

The takeaway

Ruth E. Carter's continued success and recognition at the Oscars, including becoming the most-nominated Black woman in history, is a testament to her talent, dedication, and the growing diversity and representation in the film industry. Her Massachusetts roots and connections highlight the state's creative contributions to Hollywood.