Indy the dog beats Ethan Hawke and Alison Brie for Best Performance prize at 2026 Astra Awards

The 'Good Boy' star was awarded in the Best Performance in a Horror or Thriller category at the 9th Astra Awards

Renowned actors, Ethan Hawke and Alison Brie were beaten to an acting award by Indy the dog at the 9th annual Astra Film Awards, held this weekend by the Hollywood Creative Alliance.

The surprise result came in the Best Performance in a Horror or Thriller category, where Indy, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever who starred in Ben Leonberg’s 2025 horror film Good Boy, emerged as the winner. Hawke and Brie were among several well-known actors nominated alongside the canine performer, including Alfie Williams, Sally Hawkins and Sophie Thatcher.

Indy’s performance in Good Boy centres on a dog attempting to protect the human it loves while unable to fully understand the dangerous circumstances surrounding it. The role was widely noted for conveying fear and loyalty from an animal perspective, helping to ground the film’s horror elements.

Leonberg, who both wrote and directed the film, accepted the award on Indy’s behalf via a video message shown during the ceremony. He acknowledged the unusual nature of the win while highlighting the collaborative effort behind the performance. “Indy is honored to accept this award,” Leonberg said. “Especially knowing that he’s standing alongside performers who didn’t even have to be bribed with treats to hit their marks.”

 

 

 

 

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Leonberg also noted that the recognition reflected the work of trainers and crew members who helped shape Indy’s on-screen presence, rather than the dog alone. Indy is Leonberg’s own pet and was closely involved in the film’s development.

Good Boy is currently streaming on Shudder and is also available on video-on-demand platforms.