Macaulay Culkin made a memorable return to the Golden Globes on Sunday, January 11, 2026, marking his first appearance at the event in 35 years. The "Home Alone" star, who was nominated for a Golden Globe in 1991 for his role as Kevin McCallister, took the stage as a presenter at the 83rd annual ceremony held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
Culkin's appearance was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience. Acknowledging the warm welcome, he quipped, "Thanks for welcoming me back, that's really nice of you guys". He then poked fun at his enduring association with the holiday season due to the perennial popularity of "Home Alone," saying, "I know it's weird seeing me outside the holiday season, but, shockingly, I do exist all year round, I promise you".
The actor presented the award for Best Screenplay – Motion Picture. Before announcing the nominees, Culkin emphasized the importance of screenwriters, stating, "Tonight, I'm here to present the award for Best Screenplay — Motion Picture, which actually makes a lot of sense. I've been reading screenplays basically since I learned to read". He described a good script as "the basis of it all," adding, "None of us would be here tonight without the ideas that the writers craft on the page". The award was ultimately won by Paul Thomas Anderson for "One Battle After Another".
Culkin's return to the Golden Globes stage was celebrated by fans online, with many expressing their support and admiration for the actor. Social media users praised his "return to the spotlight," with one fan noting, "I'm so proud that you've come out of the darkness of your childhood. Huge success". Another commenter playfully referenced his "Home Alone" character, writing, "From setting traps to handing out awards".
Culkin's career began at the age of four, and his breakthrough role in "Home Alone" catapulted him to international fame at the age of 10. While he has continued to act in various projects over the years, his appearance at the Golden Globes marks a significant return to the awards season circuit and a reminder of his enduring presence in popular culture.
The 83rd Golden Globes ceremony was hosted by Nikki Glaser and featured a star-studded lineup of presenters and nominees. Other notable moments from the evening included Glaser's opening monologue, which took aim at various political and social issues, and wins for "One Battle After Another" and Stellan Skarsgård for his role in "Sentimental Value".
