When it comes to awards season, fashion and talent walk hand in hand—and at the 75th Golden Globe Awards in 2018, two young stars captured attention both for their dapper red carpet looks and their rising status in Hollywood. Nominees Ansel Elgort and Freddie Highmore, each up for major television and film honors, proved that elegance and charm can go a long way in making a lasting impression. Dressed to impress and radiating quiet confidence, both actors reminded the world why they were among the most promising talents of their generation.
While the evening ultimately focused on the best performances in film and television, the sight of Elgort and Highmore—two polished gentlemen in crisp suits—offered a glimpse into the future of Hollywood. With their boyish good looks, undeniable screen presence, and poised demeanor, the two young men brought classic style and modern flair to one of the most prestigious red carpets of the year.
Held on January 7, 2018, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, the Golden Globes that year were marked not only by celebration, but by a powerful message. In the wake of the #MeToo movement, nearly all attendees wore black as a show of solidarity for victims of sexual harassment and gender inequality. The sea of black attire created a powerful, unified visual statement—and Elgort and Highmore were among those who honored the message with both style and substance.
Wearing traditional black tuxedos, both actors exuded quiet sophistication. It wasn’t just about looking good—it was about standing in support of a movement that had taken the industry by storm. In a room filled with flashing cameras and global attention, their decision to stay understated yet elegant was both respectful and impactful.
Freddie Highmore, nominated for Best Actor in a Television Drama Series for his role in The Good Doctor, looked effortlessly sharp in a classic black tuxedo with satin lapels, a crisp white shirt, and a neatly tied black bowtie. With his trademark humility and soft-spoken nature, Highmore’s presence on the red carpet felt refreshingly genuine. He wasn’t there to show off—he was there as a serious artist being recognized for a powerful performance.
In The Good Doctor, Highmore plays Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome. The role required careful nuance, emotional range, and deep respect for the neurodivergent community. Highmore delivered all of that and more, earning widespread praise and turning the show into one of ABC’s most-watched series. That nomination marked his official arrival as one of the most respected actors of his generation—and his composed appearance at the Golden Globes only solidified that reputation.
On the other side of the aisle was Ansel Elgort, nominated for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for his breakout performance in Baby Driver. A sleek crime-thriller laced with music and adrenaline, Baby Driver showcased Elgort’s ability to combine charisma, vulnerability, and physicality all in one dynamic performance.
Elgort arrived at the Golden Globes wearing a plush velvet tuxedo jacket in a deep, rich black tone. The texture added a modern edge to his look, while still staying within the elegant black dress code. With his hair neatly combed and his demeanor suave but relaxed, he embodied the spirit of a Hollywood star on the rise—confident, but not arrogant; bold, but not flashy.
For Elgort, the nomination represented more than just a nod to his performance—it was a signal that he had crossed over from teen heartthrob to serious leading man. His red carpet presence mirrored that transformation: stylish, polished, and ready to take on the world. Together, Freddie Highmore and Ansel Elgort stood out not because of extravagance, but because of their natural charisma and timeless sense of style. In an era where red carpet fashion can often feel more like a spectacle, their elegant restraint made a strong statement.
Both actors represented a new generation of male performers: thoughtful, multi-talented, and socially aware. Highmore, who is also a screenwriter and director, and Elgort, who balances acting with a passion for music and DJing, are not just faces on a screen. They are creators, thinkers, and, in many ways, the future of the industry. Their Golden Globe appearances weren’t just about personal achievement—they were about evolution. Highmore had just transitioned from his acclaimed (but dark) role in Bates Motel to a hopeful, inspiring character in The Good Doctor. Elgort had just stepped out of ensemble casts and supporting roles to carry an entire action movie almost entirely on his own.
That night, both actors stood not just as nominees, but as symbols of what the future of film and television might look like—one that values depth, integrity, and quiet excellence. Unsurprisingly, social media lit up during and after the awards ceremony. Fans praised Highmore’s classic look and his humble interviews. Many commented on how dashing and “old-Hollywood” he looked, comparing him to a young Gregory Peck or Anthony Perkins—a fitting nod given his Bates Motel roots. Elgort’s velvet tuxedo, meanwhile, made waves among fashion critics. It was praised for its texture and daring refinement, with many placing him on best-dressed lists the next day. His look was bold without being showy, stylish without screaming for attention—exactly what a red carpet win should look like.
At the 2018 Golden Globes, Ansel Elgort and Freddie Highmore proved that showing up with grace, style, and authenticity never goes out of fashion. Though neither took home a trophy that night, they both left lasting impressions—on the carpet, in the industry, and in the hearts of fans. Dressed in black in support of a cause, both actors embraced the moment with maturity and purpose. They reminded everyone that award shows are more than glitz—they’re platforms. And in that moment, these two young men used their platform to shine, not just for themselves, but for the values they represented.
