Paris – Théodore Pellerin, the 28-year-old Quebecois actor, has been awarded the César Award for Most Promising Actor for his compelling performance in the film Nino. The prestigious award, considered the French equivalent of an Oscar, was presented at a ceremony held at the Olympia in Paris on Thursday, February 26, 2026. This win marks a significant milestone in Pellerin’s burgeoning international career and solidifies Nino’s impact on the cinematic landscape.
Pellerin’s portrayal of Nino, a young man grappling with a sudden cancer diagnosis, resonated deeply with critics and audiences alike. The film, directed by Pauline Loquès in her feature film debut, explores themes of mortality, connection, and the urgency of life with a delicate balance of humor, and pathos. The César win not only recognizes Pellerin’s individual talent but also celebrates Loquès’s directorial vision, as she was also nominated for Best Original Screenplay and Best First Film, ultimately taking home the award for Best First Film. The success of Nino underscores a growing recognition of Quebecois talent within the French film industry.
A Rising Star: Pellerin’s Journey to the César
Born in Quebec City, the son of dancer and choreographer Marie Chouinard and painter Denis Pellerin, Théodore Pellerin’s path to acting was perhaps inevitable. He first gained recognition in Canada for his role in Sophie Dupuis’s 2018 film, Chien de garde, and continued to collaborate with Dupuis on Souterrain and Solo. These early roles showcased his ability to portray complex characters with nuance and vulnerability, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in Canadian cinema. La Presse reports that Pellerin’s performance in Nino has been widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
Pellerin’s talent also caught the attention of acclaimed Canadian director Xavier Dolan, who cast him in the 2016 film Juste la fin du monde. This early exposure to international filmmaking broadened his horizons and paved the way for further opportunities. More recently, he portrayed Karl Lagerfeld in the French series Becoming Karl Lagerfeld (2024), demonstrating his versatility as an actor capable of embodying iconic figures. His role as Lagerfeld further cemented his presence in the French entertainment industry, setting the stage for his triumph at the César Awards.
Nino: A Story of Urgency and Connection
Nino centers around a young man who unexpectedly learns he has throat cancer. The film masterfully portrays the 48-hour window he has to inform his loved ones and consider preserving his fertility before undergoing chemotherapy. As GQ Magazine details, Pellerin was immediately drawn to the script, captivated by its “tenderness and humanity.” He described feeling an immediate connection to the character and a desire to bring his story to life.
The film avoids sensationalism, instead opting for a poignant and often humorous exploration of a difficult situation. It’s a “balade à la fois douce et mélancolique,” as described by GQ, where Pellerin’s performance truly shines. The narrative focuses not on the tragedy of the illness itself, but on the protagonist’s attempts to navigate his relationships and build peace with his circumstances. The film’s success is a testament to Loquès’s sensitive direction and Pellerin’s ability to convey a wide range of emotions with subtlety and grace.
The César Awards and Pellerin’s Acceptance Speech
The César Awards are France’s national film awards, established in 1976 by the Académie des Arts et Techniques du Cinéma. They are widely regarded as the most prestigious film awards in France, equivalent to the Oscars in the United States. The 51st César Awards ceremony, held on February 26, 2026, celebrated the best in French cinema from the previous year.
Upon receiving the award for Most Promising Actor, Pellerin expressed his gratitude and humility. According to Radio-Canada, he stated, “C’est un immense honneur, le simple fait d’être dans cette salle parmi vous.” (It’s a huge honor, simply being in this room with all of you.) He went on to praise director Pauline Loquès, saying, “Je souhaite à tous les acteurs et à toutes les actrices d’avoir la chance d’être filmés par Pauline Loquès.” (I wish all actors and actresses had the chance to be filmed by Pauline Loquès.) He acknowledged the film as a significant role in his career, stating it would remain one of his most cherished experiences.
Beyond Nino: Pellerin’s Future Projects
Pellerin’s César win is not just a recognition of past achievements but also a springboard for future opportunities. He is currently slated to star in several upcoming projects, demonstrating his growing demand within the film industry. He will take on the lead role in Milo, directed by Nicole Garcia, alongside Marion Cotillard, Artus, and Laure Calamy. He is also set to appear in Cry to Heaven, directed by Tom Ford, alongside Nicholas Hoult and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and reportedly Adele. Pellerin will portray King Henri III in À la faveur du roi, directed by Rémi Giordano, and will reunite with Félix Kysil in Je veux juste une grande histoire d’amour, directed by Philippe Lesage.
These diverse roles showcase Pellerin’s versatility and his willingness to take on challenging and complex characters. His ability to seamlessly transition between French and international productions positions him as a rising star with a truly global appeal. The momentum generated by his César win is likely to open even more doors, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in contemporary cinema.
Recognition for Pauline Loquès
While Pellerin’s win is undoubtedly a highlight, it’s important to acknowledge the success of Pauline Loquès as well. Her film, Nino, was awarded the César for Best First Film, marking a remarkable debut for the director. Loquès’s sensitive and nuanced approach to storytelling, combined with her ability to elicit powerful performances from her actors, has established her as a talent to watch. The dual recognition for Pellerin and Loquès underscores the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the importance of supporting emerging voices in the industry.
The success of Nino also builds on Pellerin’s earlier accolades, including the Prix Fondation Louis Roederer de la Révélation at the 64th Semaine de la Critique at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025. This demonstrates a consistent pattern of critical acclaim for both the actor and the film.
The future looks bright for Théodore Pellerin. With a César Award under his belt and a slate of exciting projects on the horizon, he is poised to become one of the most sought-after actors of his generation. His dedication to his craft, combined with his undeniable talent, promises a long and successful career in the world of cinema. Fans and industry professionals alike will be eagerly anticipating his next performance.
The actor’s continued success will undoubtedly further elevate the profile of Quebecois cinema on the international stage. As Pellerin continues to take on challenging and meaningful roles, he is sure to inspire and captivate audiences for years to reach. The next confirmed project for Pellerin is the filming of Milo, scheduled to begin in late Spring 2026.
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