Olivia Colman’s Best Actress Oscar was the upset of the night

After receiving her first ever nomination, Olivia Colman pulled off a stunner at last night’s 91st annual Academy Awards.

Going into last night’s Oscar telecast, experts were certain that this would be the year Glenn Close finally won. Instead, it turned out to be quite a night for one Olivia Colman.

In what was arguably the biggest shock of the night, Colman won Best Actress for her portrayal of Queen Anne in The Favourite. It was a win that stunned even Colman herself.

Make no mistake, Glenn Close is still a Hollywood icon. She still may not have the coveted statue, but no one can deny her prowess. However, Colman winning does present a couple of things more than just sheer shock value.

Forbes Magazine published an amazing profile on Colman just today. She began her work in her native homeland of England. Specifically, the town of Norwich is where she grew up.

One of the first ever jobs she had was as a cleaning lady. Naturally, it makes for the perfect rags to riches story. She also spent some time as both a teacher and a student at various academies and schools throughout Great Britain.

Colman’s first big role was on the British series Peep Show, which lasted 12 seasons from 2003-15. She also had roles in other British films that included 2007’s Hot Fuzz and most notably in 2011 in Tyrannosaur, portraying a victim of domestic abuse. Viewers may also recognize her from Broadchurch, the much-binged British detective series Netflix introduced to American audiences a few years back.

Even before the big victory last night, Colman was already cast in The Crown on Nextflix. She will carry on the role as Queen Elizabeth vacated by Claire Foy. Gillian Anderson may also soon act alongside her in the role of Margaret Thatcher.

Last night’s Oscar win is sure to keep Colman busy for a while. And deservedly so, as her portrayal of Queen Anne in The Favourite was riveting and well deserving of the accolades. The future is bright for Colman, as well it should be. We eagerly await her work in The Crown and all other future projects to come.