Daniel Day-Lewis’ highly anticipated return with Anemone is poised to be another defining moment in his legendary career — potentially tying him with one of the most celebrated actresses of all time. Day-Lewis could make Oscars history in 2026, as he sets out to break a 44-year-old achievement that even Hollywood’s most talented names have yet to beat. If Daniel Day-Lewis’ best movies are any indication, he is more than capable of breaking new ground.

Known for his wild method acting practices and signature characters in films like Spielberg’s Lincoln, Paul Thomas Anderson’s Phantom Thread and Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York, Day-Lewis’ comeback is already generating major awards buzz. Day-Lewis’ retirement break is quite surprising, as Anemone marks an intentional and bold departure from the actor’s usual role approach. However, this might be exactly what propels him to new heights. In what could be his most personal role yet, Day-Lewis has the chance to repeat Oscar history once again, and even set a record of his own.

Daniel Day-Lewis Could Get His 4th Oscar Win In 2026 For Anemone

Daniel Day-Lewis’ Son Could Carry His Father To History With His Directorial Debut

Six-time Oscar nominee Daniel Day-Lewis has already set high expectations for Anemone. The film marks the directorial debut of his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, and its synopsis states: “Family bonds between fathers, sons, and brothers are explored as complex relationships unfold through personal journeys and generational conflicts.” Co-written by the father-son duo, the movie could be the veteran actor’s most personal project yet — one that may showcase an entirely new side of his talent. If the film lives up to the buzz, Day-Lewis could be on his way to securing his fourth Oscar win.

Previously, the actor won the Oscar with unforgettable performances in Jim Sheridan’s My Left Foot, Paul Thomas Anderson’s There Will Be Blood, and Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln. Though Anemone doesn’t have an experienced director at its head, history has shown that first-time directors can still lead their actors to Oscar gold. If Ronan draws from his father’s extensive experience working with Hollywood’s finest, Anemone could be another career-defining moment for Day-Lewis. While Day-Lewis is most known for his intense method-acting, Anemone might prove his skill in dramatic genres, potentially paving the way for an exciting new chapter in his career.

Daniel Day-Lewis Winning Another Best Actor Oscar Would Tie Katharine Hepburn’s Acting Wins Record

Daniel Day-Lewis Anemone Win Would Be An Appropriate Ending To His Career

Though several actors have earned as many as nine nominations, Daniel Day-Lewis remains the only performer to have won three Best Actor Oscars. On the Best Actress side, Katharine Hepburn holds the all-time record with four Oscar wins, followed by Frances McDormand with three. If Day-Lewis wins with Anemone, he would not only tie Hepburn as the second performer ever to win four times in a leading category but also make history as the first man to achieve this feat.

Notably, it’s been 44 years since Hepburn set the record, and if anyone is poised to join her in that esteemed place, it’s Daniel Day-Lewis. Holding the top position of the best actors of all time, Lewis’ talent is undeniable. Since his breakout in The Unbearable Lightness of Being, he has continuously astonished audiences with his extreme method acting approach, delivering performances of unparalleled depth and intensity. Lewis’ victory with Anemone would even serve as the perfect end to a legendary career, closing his run with a deeply personal story that pushes his artistry further than ever before.