Introduction
It's a rare and remarkable occurrence to be nominated for a repeat role at the Oscars. In the 94-year history of the prestigious awards, only six actors have achieved the feat of being nominated for playing the same character in different movies. While it's not uncommon for different portrayals of the same character to be nominated or even win an Oscar, these instances typically involve different actors playing the role in remakes or sequels. However, the actors we're about to delve into have been recognized for their portrayal of a character in separate, distinct films.
A black and white image of Father Chuck O'Malley (Bing Crosby) in The Bells of St. Mary's (1945).
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the actors who have made history by receiving nominations for playing the same character on multiple occasions. From iconic priests to legendary monarchs, these actors have left an indelible mark on the Oscars' legacy. Let's explore their remarkable journeys and the characters that have earned them double recognition at the Academy Awards.
Peter O'Toole as King Henry II wearing a crown in Becket (1964).
Bing Crosby: The Pioneering Priest
Our journey into the world of repeat nominations begins with Bing Crosby, who made history as the first actor to be nominated twice for playing the same character in different movies. In 1944, Crosby portrayed Father Charles 'Chuck' O'Malley, a Roman Catholic priest, in the film 'Going My Way', which earned him his first Oscar nomination and win. Without delay, Crosby reprised the role in the sequel 'The Bells of St. Mary's' the following year, securing another Best Actor nomination, the second of his career.
Crosby's back-to-back nominations in 1945 and 1946 for his performances as Father Chuck O'Malley set a precedent in Oscars history. Not only was he the first actor to achieve this feat, but he also became one of the few to win for portraying the same character. Despite his pioneering achievement, Crosby's double nominations for the beloved priest remain a rare occurrence in the annals of the Academy Awards.
Peter O'Toole: Regal Reprises
Following in the footsteps of Bing Crosby, Peter O'Toole secured a second nomination for his portrayal of King Henry II of England. O'Toole first received an Oscar nomination for his role in 'Becket' in 1964, and four years later, he was once again recognized for playing the same historical ruler in 'The Lion in Winter'. Despite 'The Lion in Winter' not being an official sequel to 'Becket', O'Toole's remarkable achievement in receiving nominations for both performances solidified his place in Oscars history.
Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) in The Godfather (1972).
While O'Toole may not have clinched the coveted award for his regal reprises, his double nominations for portraying King Henry II underscored the rarity and significance of being recognized for the same character across different films. His enduring legacy as the iconic English monarch resonates in the annals of cinematic history, adding a unique chapter to the narrative of repeat nominations at the Oscars.
Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) at a funeral in The Godfather.
Al Pacino: The Godfather's Double Nominee
Al Pacino, one of the most nominated male actors in Oscars history, achieved the rare feat of receiving nominations for playing the iconic character Michael Corleone in 'The Godfather' trilogy. Pacino's first-ever Oscar nomination in 1973 was for his role in 'The Godfather' in the Best Supporting Actor category. Two years later, he was nominated again for his return as Michael Corleone in 'The Godfather Part II', but this time for Best Actor.
Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) wearing his army uniform in The Godfather.
With these two nominations for playing the same character in 'The Godfather' trilogy, Pacino joined the ranks of actors recognized for their portrayal of a character more than once. His enduring impact as Michael Corleone, coupled with the rarity of receiving double nominations for the same role, solidified his place in the pantheon of Oscars history. While Pacino's portrayal of the iconic character captivated audiences, his double nominations added an intriguing dimension to the legacy of repeat recognitions at the Academy Awards.
Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) visits Mo in Vegas in The Godfather.
