Leonardo DiCaprio was notably absent from the Palm Springs Film Awards this weekend, despite being one of the night’s most anticipated honorees.
The Oscar-winning actor, 51, was due to attend the California ceremony to receive the Desert Palm Achievement Award for his performance in ‘One Battle After Another.’ However, travel disruptions linked to US air restrictions prevented him from making the journey from the Caribbean.
Organizers confirmed the absence was related to restricted airspace following President Donald Trump’s decision to launch military strikes in Venezuela. As a result, DiCaprio accepted the honour virtually.
In a statement, a Palm Springs International Film Festival spokesperson said:
“Leonardo DiCaprio is unable to join us in person tonight due to unexpected travel disruptions and restricted airspace. While we will miss celebrating him in person, we are honoured to recognise his exceptional work.”
The moment comes as DiCaprio has increasingly spoken out about the uncertain future of cinemas. In recent interviews, he has warned that theatrical releases risk becoming cultural relics if audiences continue shifting toward streaming.
Despite missing the ceremony, DiCaprio shared a video acceptance speech.
Watch below:
Leonardo DiCaprio has accepted his #PalmSpringsFilmFest Desert Palm Achievement Award remotely, due to air travel restrictions in Venezuela. pic.twitter.com/LujDqTGvgU
— 𝙲𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚖𝚊 𝙱𝚞𝚛𝚜𝚝 (@CinemaBurst) January 4, 2026