Rose Byrne has been recognized as Harvard University’s Hasty Pudding Woman of the Year for 2026, following her recent Golden Globe Award victory and Oscar nomination for her stellar performance in “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You.” The announcement was made on Wednesday, adding to the Australian actress’s achievements that include notable roles in “Bridesmaids,” “Neighbors,” “Insidious,” and “Damages.”
Byrne will be celebrated on February 13 during a parade through the historic streets of Cambridge, Massachusetts. The festivities will culminate with her receiving the esteemed pudding pot award at a celebratory roast, after which she will attend a performance of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals’ 177th production, “Salooney Tunes.”
In her recent role in “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” critics have praised Byrne for showcasing her versatility and grit, characterizing it as possibly the toughest dramatic role of her career. The Associated Press’s Jocelyn Noveck highlighted this aspect in her review.
Joining Byrne in this year’s accolades is actor Michael Keaton, named the 2026 Man of the Year, who will be honored on February 6 with a similar pudding pot award.
Daisy Nussbaum, President of Hasty Pudding Theatricals, expressed the organization’s excitement about honoring Byrne, stating, “Hot off a Golden Globe win and an Oscar nomination, it’s only right that she receives the most prestigious award of all: a pudding pot.”
The Hasty Pudding Theatricals is recognized as the oldest theatrical organization in the United States and one of the oldest globally. Since its inception, it has celebrated numerous talented women, including renowned actresses like Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Scarlett Johansson, and Annette Bening. Last year’s honoree was the celebrated star of “Wicked,” Cynthia Erivo.
In addition to her recent film work, Byrne has a diverse theater background, having participated in productions such as “Medea” and “You Can’t Take it With You” at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. She is slated to co-star with Kelli O’Hara in the Broadway revival of “Fallen Angels,” set to begin in March. This recognition not only honors her past achievements but also bodes well for her promising future in film and theater.