Sean Penn reveals the moment he decided to stop attending awards shows

Sean Penn says fame culture was the reason that pushed him away from awards shows, admitting the experience became overwhelming and damaging to his mental health.

The 65-year-old actor made the admission during a conversation with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins at the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival, saying it all happened after Hollywood ceremonies started to leave him deeply uncomfortable in social settings.

“It’s not just an awards show,” Penn said, calling the events emotionally draining due to the constant interaction with large groups of people.

The Oscar-winning actor said he now avoids situations involving crowds altogether, adding, “I’m committed for life that I won’t go anywhere to be in a designated group beyond eight people.”

Penn added that the fast-paced nature of celebrity events creates anxiety for him, saying awards ceremonies only allow “15 minutes per person,” which he described as “dread-provoking.”

The actor, who won Academy Awards for his performances in Mystic River and Milk, admitted that even during his previous Oscar wins, the main feeling he experienced was relief.

“The two times I had gone, I felt relief that I’d won because so many people had worked really hard for that,” he said.

Penn also shared that he officially decided to stop attending such events earlier this year after making an appearance at the Golden Globe Awards for the first time.

“That’s where I decided, ‘I can’t do this,’” he explained.

Instead of attending the recent Academy Awards in person, Penn traveled to Kyiv to show support for Ukraine during the ongoing war with Russia.

Reflecting on watching the Oscars from afar, he said, “I really got to enjoy the Academy Awards for the first time.”

Penn also criticised celebrity selfie culture, calling it a “soul-sucker” and insisting people should stop asking public figures for photos.