Oscar Shake-Up: Zendaya's 'Dune 3' Best Actress Bid Ignites Buzz

Multiple sources confirm that Zendaya is set to campaign for Oscar consideration in the lead actress category for her role as Chani in “Dune: Part Three,” the concluding chapter of Denis Villeneuve’s science fiction epic. This decision marks a significant shift from the first two films, where she was positioned for supporting actress recognition. While Warner Bros. and Zendaya’s representatives have declined to comment, the move underscores Chani’s considerably expanded role within the narrative.

“Dune: Part Three” is set nearly two decades after Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet, consolidates control of the Imperium. As a now ruthless emperor, Paul must confront the repercussions of his reign. The story unfolds with the return of old allies, the emergence of terrifying new threats, and betrayal lurking in every corner. Haunted by visions of imperial collapse and the reappearance of his long-lost love, Paul finds himself entangled in a sweeping conspiracy, with Chani central to its unfolding mystery. As rebellion brews and enemies close in, Paul must face the true cost of power and the fate of those he holds dearest. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Jason Momoa, Florence Pugh, Rebecca Ferguson, Anya Taylor-Joy, Robert Pattinson, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, Charlotte Rampling, and Isaach de Bankolé.

This potential Oscar campaign caps a stellar year for the 30-year-old multi-hyphenate, who is poised for contention across multiple categories and films this awards season. Zendaya started 2026 by starring as Emma Harwood, a literary editor who uncovers shocking secrets, in the romantic dark comedy “The Drama” from writer-director Kristoffer Borgli. Her performance in this film, opposite Robert Pattinson, will also be submitted in the lead actress category. Following this, she took on the role of Athena in Christopher Nolan’s billion-dollar mythological adaptation “The Odyssey,” where she will vie for supporting actress recognition alongside co-stars Anne Hathaway, Samantha Morton, and Charlize Theron. She also reprised her role as MJ in Destin Daniel Cretton’s “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” another billion-dollar hit that has achieved status among the highest-grossing films of all time.

Zendaya’s relatively brief career has already yielded an impressive collection of accolades. She has secured two Emmys for her portrayal of Rue in the HBO Max drama “Euphoria,” becoming the youngest two-time winner in the lead drama actress category. In 2023, she also earned a Golden Globe for the same role. The year 2025 saw her receive two Golden Globe nominations for Luca Guadagnino’s tennis romance “Challengers”—one for lead actress in a comedy and another as a producer when the film was nominated for best picture (musical or comedy). An Oscar nomination this year would mark her first. “Dune: Part Three” is scheduled for release by Warner Bros. in theaters and Imax on December 18.