‘The Death of Robin Hood’ Star Bill Skarsgård Dons Classic Tuxedo at Academy Museum Gala
Few actors have crafted a career around unsettling performances quite like Bill Skarsgård. Known as a “creature actor,” his filmography is filled with horror and dark fantasy roles, making his polished appearances noteworthy.
The Swedish actor, who celebrated his 36th birthday in August, is widely recognized for his portrayal of Pennywise in the ‘It’ films and the prequel series ‘It: Welcome to Derry,’ where he also serves as an executive producer. Additionally, he took on the role of Count Orlok in ‘Nosferatu’ and Eric in ‘The Crow,’ both set to release in 2024.
His presence at the sixth annual Academy Museum Gala marked a refreshing change of pace. Bill Skarsgård opted for a classic black tuxedo, embodying the essence of Hollywood glamour on a night dedicated to elegance.
Bill Skarsgård is here at the Academy Museum Gala https://t.co/J5Kamiy34I
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) October 18, 2026
Reports indicate he wore Dolce&Gabbana for the occasion. The tuxedo featured wide satin peak lapels, a crisp white shirt, and a classic black bow tie, complemented by high-waisted, wide-leg trousers.
In a clip from the red carpet, he stands with one hand in his pocket, his dark hair slicked back, against softly draped curtains. The jacket falls neatly over the trousers, creating a long, elegant silhouette. The simplicity of the look is precisely what makes it effective.
Bill Skarsgård photographed at the Academy Museum 6th Annual Gala. 📷 https://t.co/iQ1aUhZyvJ
— Film Crave (@_filmcrave) October 18, 2026
This tuxedo stands in stark contrast to his last major fashion statement. At the 2026 Met Gala in May, he donned a custom Thom Browne ensemble for the “Costume Art” theme, featuring an elongated patchwork tuxedo in wool and silk satin, a black cashmere vest, and an oversized black peacoat with a shearling collar. Thom Browne referred to his concept as “The Aging Body.”
Vogue Scandinavia characterized that look as a darker, more disciplined interpretation, showcasing razor-sharp tailoring and high-shine leather. In contrast, the Academy Museum Gala outfit simplifies the aesthetic, trading theatrical layers for a singular, refined silhouette.
Bill Skarsgård is here at the Academy Museum Gala https://t.co/J5Kamiy34I
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) October 18, 2026
Skarsgård wasn’t alone on the carpet; his brother Alexander Skarsgård also graced the event. Known for his bold fashion choices, Alexander has made headlines for his thigh-high boots at Cannes and a striking gold Saint Laurent suit paired with transparent PVC shoes at the recent BFI London Film Festival.
In this context, Bill’s classic tuxedo emerges as the more understated option. It serves as a reminder that there are various ways to leave a mark on the red carpet, with restraint being just as impactful as flamboyance.
Bill Skarsgård attends the 6th Annual Academy Museum Gala at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on October 17, 2026 in Los Angeles, California https://t.co/Xi1nfTCwrf
— Chris (@Nenn_mich_chris) October 18, 2026
Skarsgård’s career has been marked by transformation. He began as a child actor alongside his brother in ‘White Water Fury’ and later took on roles in ‘Hemlock Grove,’ ‘Castle Rock,’ ‘Barbarian,’ ‘Atomic Blonde,’ and ‘John Wick: Chapter 4.’ His horror performances, particularly as Pennywise, catapulted him to fame.
His films have collectively grossed over $3.3 billion worldwide, as noted in his profile, and he has received numerous awards and nominations, including a Satellite Award and a Berlinale Award. Such a successful track record makes his formal appearances feel like special occasions.
Skarsgård’s schedule is packed. He portrays Tony Kiritsis in ‘Dead Man’s Wire,’ and his upcoming projects include ‘The Death of Robin Hood,’ where he plays Little John, and ‘Emperor,’ in which he takes on the role of Philip II of Spain. He is also slated for ‘Lords of War’ in 2027.
This diverse range of roles, spanning true-crime drama, historical epic, and horror, adds intrigue to events like the gala. It captures an actor who is equally at ease in a tuxedo as he is under heavy prosthetics.
The gala celebrated Charlize Theron, Colman Domingo, and John Carpenter, with Taylor Swift set to perform. Other guests included Jessica Biel, Justin Timberlake, Kim Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Jacob Elordi, alongside Alexander Skarsgård and Tom Ford.
In a sea of statement gowns, a perfectly tailored tuxedo stood out for its simplicity. It exuded confidence and unmistakably evoked the charm of old Hollywood.
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