Sean Penn Skips Oscars to Support Ukraine Amidst Award Recognition

Sean Penn made headlines by skipping the 98th Academy Awards to visit Ukraine, where he met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Known for his advocacy for Ukraine, Penn's absence from the Oscars raised eyebrows, especially as he was recognized for his role in 'One Battle After Another.' The actor's commitment to documenting Zelenskyy's story showcases his dedication to the cause. This article delves into Penn's relationship with Zelenskyy, his history with award ceremonies, and the narrative of his latest film. Discover how Penn's choices reflect his values and the impact of his work.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 00:15 IST

Sean Penn's Absence at the Oscars

Sean Penn was anticipated to attend the 98th Academy Awards on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. However, he opted to travel to Kyiv instead. The actor, known for his strong support of Ukraine, did not collect his Best Supporting Actor award for One Battle After Another. An AFP journalist reported that Penn was in Ukraine for personal reasons, stating, “That's how he sees it, that he needs to be in Ukraine.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared a photo with Penn on social media.

Meeting with President Zelenskyy

Sean Penn visits Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Penn has consistently shown his support for Zelenskyy, often declining invitations to award ceremonies. This time, he met with the President, who referred to him as a ‘true friend’ of Ukraine. In his tweet, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude, stating, “You have stood with Ukraine since the first day of the full-scale war,” and assured that Penn would continue to support the nation and its people.

The Bond Between Penn and Zelenskyy

How did Sean Penn and Volodymyr Zelenskyy bond?

Penn and Zelenskyy connected over the latter’s documentary. Initially, Penn aimed to create a light-hearted documentary about the entertainer-turned-President, but the project took a serious turn. After an unsuccessful first shoot, Penn persevered, and Zelenskyy, honoring his commitment, grew to trust him more. The documentary titled Superpower premiered at the Berlin Film Festival. The official synopsis reveals, “Sean Penn heads to Ukraine to learn more about comedic-actor turned president, Volodymyr Zelensky. But when Penn finds himself in an undisclosed bunker of the Presidential Palace on the evening of the Russian invasion, he instead has a front row seat to Zelensky's greatest challenge as a world leader.”

Sean Penn's History with Awards

Sean Penn and Hollywood awards

Penn has a history of skipping award ceremonies. He missed the Oscars 2026 and also did not attend the ceremony in 2004 when he won for Mystic River. He is now recognized as the fourth actor to achieve three Oscars.

Overview of One Battle After Another

About One Battle After Another

One Battle After Another narrates the tale of Bob Ferguson (played by DiCaprio), a former radical in the leftist vigilante group French 75, who now lives a quiet life with his teenage daughter Willa (Chase Infiniti). Sixteen years after his lover Perfidia (Teyana Taylor) vanished, the past resurfaces as Col. Steven J. Lockjaw (Sean Penn), a corrupt and powerful figure, re-enters Bob’s life, forcing him back into a world filled with comrades, betrayals, and high-stakes resistance.