Ruth E. Carter Breaks Records with Fifth Oscar Nomination

Acclaimed costume designer recognized for her work on "Sinners"

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Ruth E. Carter, the renowned costume designer known for her groundbreaking work on films like "Black Panther," has earned her fifth Oscar nomination, making her the most-nominated Black woman in Academy Awards history. Carter's meticulous research and dedication to authentic representation have redefined costume design in Hollywood.

Why it matters

Carter's success highlights the growing demand for diverse and culturally relevant storytelling in film and television. Her work has opened doors for a new generation of designers and filmmakers, demonstrating the power of representation and the importance of preserving historical accuracy and tradition in costume design.

The details

With her latest nomination for "Sinners," Carter has solidified her place as a trailblazer in the industry. Her work on the "Black Panther" films, which earned her two Oscar wins, has been widely praised for its stunning visual representation of African cultures and traditions. Carter's collaborative approach, working closely with directors to translate their vision into tangible designs, has been integral to her success.

  • Ruth E. Carter received her fifth Oscar nomination on February 14, 2026.
  • She previously won Oscars for her work on "Black Panther" in 2019 and "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" in 2023.

The players

Ruth E. Carter

An acclaimed costume designer who has redefined Black representation in Hollywood, becoming the most-nominated Black woman in Academy Awards history.

Ryan Coogler

A director who has collaborated extensively with Ruth E. Carter, including on the "Black Panther" films.

Spike Lee

A director who has also worked with Ruth E. Carter on several of his films.

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What they’re saying

“It's really wonderful that people feel like I made an impact.”

— Ruth E. Carter, Costume Designer (newsy-today.com)

“They give me the playbook, and I seize the ball to the end zone.”

— Ruth E. Carter, Costume Designer (newsy-today.com)

“If you don't think that's crucial and that we have other ways of learning about ourselves, then you don't understand the power of art.”

— Ruth E. Carter, Costume Designer (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

Carter's latest Oscar nomination for "Sinners" will be celebrated at the upcoming Academy Awards ceremony, where she will be recognized for her continued contributions to the film industry.

The takeaway

Ruth E. Carter's success has set a new standard for costume design, emphasizing the importance of authentic representation, cultural preservation, and the power of art in storytelling. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring designers and filmmakers, demonstrating the impact that can be achieved through perseverance and a commitment to meaningful, impactful work.