Rose Byrne, an Australian actress recently distinguished by a Golden Globe Award and an Oscar nomination for her starring role in the film "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You," has been announced as the 2026 Woman of the Year by Harvard University's Hasty Pudding Theatricals. This recognition was publicly declared on Wednesday and is slated to be celebrated with a parade through the streets of Cambridge, Massachusetts, on February 13.
Following the parade, Byrne will be presented with the traditional pudding pot award during a celebratory roast event. Additionally, she will attend a performance of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals' 177th production, titled "Salooney Tunes."
Byrne's acclaimed performance in "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You" has been highlighted by critical voices such as Jocelyn Noveck from The Associated Press, who noted that the film offered Byrne an opportunity to showcase both versatility and determination in what is described as the most challenging dramatic role she has undertaken to date.
Rose Byrne's extensive filmography includes significant roles in popular movies such as "Bridesmaids," "Neighbors," "Insidious," and the television series "Damages." Beyond these screen performances, her theater credentials include notable productions like "Medea" and "You Can’t Take it With You" staged at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Looking ahead, Byrne is poised to star alongside Kelli O’Hara in the forthcoming Broadway revival of "Fallen Angels," commencing in March.
Alongside Byrne, actor Michael Keaton has been designated the 2026 Man of the Year by the same theatrical organization. Keaton is scheduled to receive his pudding pot on February 6.
In a formal statement, Hasty Pudding Theatricals President Daisy Nussbaum expressed enthusiasm about honoring Byrne, remarking that her receipt of one of the most distinguished accolades, the pudding pot award, is especially fitting given her recent award achievements.
The Hasty Pudding Theatricals, known for being the oldest theatrical organization in the United States and among the oldest worldwide, has a longstanding tradition of bestowing the Woman of the Year award annually since 1951. Past recipients include renowned actors such as Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Scarlett Johansson, and Annette Bening. The previous year's honoree was Cynthia Erivo, famed for her role in "Wicked."
Byrne's international career also features films like "Juliet, Naked," "Get Him to the Greek," and "28 Weeks Later," consolidating her reputation across both dramatic and comedic genres.