Directors Guild of America Unveils Full Nominees List for the 2026 DGA Awards

The Directors Guild of America (DGA) has officially announced the nominees for the 78th Annual DGA Awards, spotlighting the most outstanding directing achievements in theatrical feature films released in 2025.

Often regarded as one of the strongest indicators of the Academy Awards’ Best Director race, the DGA nominations once again bring together a mix of industry veterans and bold new voices shaping contemporary cinema.

The winners will be revealed on February 7, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles.

Below is the complete nominees list for the theatrical feature film categories.

Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Theatrical Feature Film — 2026 DGA Awards

This category honors directors for exceptional achievement in feature-length films intended for theatrical release.

Nominees:

  • Paul Thomas Anderson — One Battle After Another
  • Ryan Coogler — Sinners
  • Guillermo del Toro — Frankenstein
  • Josh Safdie — Marty Supreme
  • Chloé Zhao — Hamnet

The lineup reflects a wide creative spectrum from literary adaptations and gothic reimaginings to character driven dramas and auteur-led visions. Multiple nominees are previous DGA and Academy Award winners, further heightening the prestige of this year’s race.

Michael Apted Award for First-Time Theatrical Feature Film Director

Named in honor of the late director Michael Apted, this category recognizes exceptional debut feature film directors making their first major impact in cinema.

Nominees:

  • Hasan Hadi — The President’s Cake
  • Harry Lighton — Pillion
  • Charlie Polinger — The Plague
  • Alex Russell — Lurker
  • Eva Victor — Sorry, Baby

This category continues the DGA’s tradition of highlighting emerging filmmakers whose first works demonstrate strong artistic voice, originality, and narrative ambition.

The DGA Awards are widely considered one of the most reliable predictors of the Oscar Best Director winner. Historically, DGA winners have gone on to secure Academy Awards in the same category in a majority of cases.

When Are the Winners Announced?

  • Event: 78th Annual Directors Guild of America Awards
  • Date: February 7, 2026
  • Location: Beverly Hilton, Los Angeles

Rob Reiner and Wife Michele Found Dead by Daughter; LAPD Questions Son in Ongoing Investigation

Hollywood icon Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer were found dead by their daughter in their Los Angeles home. LAPD is questioning their son Nick as the homicide investigation unfold.

Rob Reiner and Wife Michele Tragically Found Dead in Brentwood Home

Los Angeles, CA, December 14, 2025. Hollywood legend Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead by their daughter, Romy Reiner, in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon. The discovery triggered an immediate response from local authorities and has since become the focus of a high-profile homicide investigation.

Emergency responders arrived at the Reiner residence around 3:30 p.m. PST after a medical aid call and found both Rob and Michele deceased inside their home. Early reports indicate that both suffered fatal stab wounds, though official confirmation is pending from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

According to sources, their daughter Romy Reiner discovered the bodies, immediately alerting emergency services. The family has requested privacy as they grieve, describing the loss as “sudden” and “devastating.” The news has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, where Rob Reiner’s career as a director, actor, and activist left a lasting legacy. 

About Rob Reiner and Michele Singer

Rob Reiner, 78, became a household name as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on All in the Family and later directed iconic films including This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally…, and A Few Good Men. Beyond film, Reiner was an outspoken activist, supporting numerous social causes throughout his life.

Michele Singer Reiner, 68, was a talented photographer and producer. Together, the couple had three children: Jake, Nick, and Romy. Their family has remained close knit despite the personal tragedies reported in the media.

LAPD Questions Son Nick Reiner in Investigation

Following the discovery, the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division launched an investigation. Detectives have questioned the couple’s son, Nick Reiner, in connection with the deaths. Sources close to the family suggest Nick may be involved, though police have not officially named him as a suspect. No arrests have been made. Via People

Nick Reiner

Nick Reiner, a screenwriter and co-writer of the semi-autobiographical film Being Charlie, has publicly discussed his history of addiction and homelessness, experiences investigators are aware of as the case develops.

The LAPD has emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and questioning family members is standard procedure in cases of homicide, especially when close relatives are involved. Detectives are gathering evidence, reviewing records, and conducting interviews to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Authorities urge the public to avoid speculating about suspects or motives, as official information will come directly from the LAPD and court filings once available.

Public Reaction and Legacy

The entertainment world has mourned the sudden loss of Reiner and Singer. Colleagues, fans, and fellow filmmakers have expressed condolences, celebrating Reiner’s remarkable contributions to Hollywood and his advocacy work. The family continues to seek privacy while the investigation unfolds.

May their souls rest in peace.

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