Brazilian star Wagner Moura has officially made history. The actor is the first Brazilian ever to be nominated for Best Actor at the Academy Awards. He earned the prestigious nod for his lead performance in Kleber Mendonça Filho’s acclaimed film, The Secret Agent.

The 98th Academy Awards nominations brought massive success for the production beyond the acting categories. The Secret Agent also secured nominations for Best Picture, Best International Feature Film, and Best Casting. This multi-category recognition marks a major milestone for Brazilian cinema on the global stage.

If Moura wins the award, he will become the first Brazilian to receive an Oscar in an acting category. While the film industry has long celebrated Brazilian talent, this Best Actor nomination breaks a long-standing barrier for the country’s performers. The film’s director, Kleber Mendonça Filho, continues his streak of critical success following previous hits like Bacurau and Aquarius.