In recognition of his lifelong contributions to theatre and film; including as a Shakespearian actor, Shakespeare’s Globe is presenting Al Pacino with the 2026 Sam Wanamaker Award.
Pacino issued a statement saying, “throughout my life, the theatre has given me a sense of purpose and belonging, and Shakespeare has always been a guiding force in that journey. His writing, in all its dimensions, has been a continuing presence in my life and so many others. To receive the Sam Wanamaker Award at Shakespeare’s Globe—a living testament to Sam’s passion and dedication to the theatre—is a profound honor. I’m deeply grateful.”
Pacino has appeared in the Shakespearian works “The Merchant of Venice”, “Julius Ceasar”, and “Richard III”.
Created in 1994, the Sam Wanamaker Award is given to those whose work, “has increased the understanding and enjoyment of Shakespeare, and which has a similar quality to the pioneering mission of the Globe’s founder Sam Wanamaker.”