The Oscars are no stranger to unexpected moments (who could forget the infamous mix-up between “Moonlight” and “La La Land” in 2017?), but sometimes the surprises come from within the Academy itself.
In the nearly 100-year history of the Oscars, there have been a total of seven ties, with the most recent occurring at the 2026 Oscars. Sam Davis’s “The Singers” and Alexandre Singh and Natalie Musteata’s “Two People Exchanging Saliva” both took home the award for Best Live Action Short, creating a rare shared victory in the category.
Looking back at the history of the Oscars, there have been a few other shocking ties that have taken place. One notable example is the tie for Best Actor in 1932, when Fredric March and Wallace Beery both received the award. While March technically won by one vote, both actors were honored with Oscar statuettes that night, prompting the Academy to revise its rules in response to the unusual outcome.
Another memorable tie occurred in 1950 for Best Documentary Short, with “So Much for So Little” and “A Chance to Live” sharing the award. This rare occurrence showcased the unpredictability of the Oscars and the diverse range of talent that is recognized by the Academy.
These ties serve as a reminder that the Oscars are not immune to surprises and that even the most prestigious awards show in Hollywood can have unexpected outcomes. As we look forward to future ceremonies, we can expect more memorable moments and potentially more ties that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
