Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re still searching for a costume this year, look no further than some of the biggest films, TV shows, and pop culture moments of the past year. From pop superstars and literary legends to real-life and fictional sports stars, here are five fun, spooky, and trendy Halloween costume ideas inspired by 2026’s biggest pop culture moments:
- Nikki from Obsession
Nikki Freeman, played by Inde Navarrette, became an instant horror icon after Obsession broke box office records earlier this year. After being unwillingly placed under a love spell by a man who desires her, Nikki transforms into an obsessive, creepy, and jealous monster who will kill to keep her man. While Nikki sports several looks throughout the film, perhaps the most memorable is her red-and-black zebra-print top, which she wears to a party where things take a bloody turn. - Michael Jackson
The King of Pop moonwalked back into the spotlight in a big way after the biopic Michael earned over a billion dollars at the box office. Not only did the film bring MJ’s iconic looks and songs back into the pop culture conversation, it introduced him to a new generation of fans. From his signature black fedora and single white glove to his red leather jacket from the “Thriller” era, there are plenty of legendary looks to choose from. Add a pair of white socks, black loafers, and a few signature dance moves, and you’re ready for the stage! - Characters from The Odyssey
Homer’s epic poem made waves this year thanks to Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, with a large array of legendary Greek heroes and gods becoming potential Halloween costumes. For a battle-ready look, channel Agamemnon with his gorgeous black-and-gold armor or feel like Anne Hathaway with a more regal and classic look inspired by Odysseus’ wife Penelope. Whether you’re dressing as a mighty king or a dignified queen, these mythological looks are sure to make you the stuff of legend. - Alex Eala
Few sports stories this year were more feel-good than the rise of Filipino tennis star Alex Eala. From making history as the first Filipino to win a WTA Tour title to reaching new heights in the rankings, Eala has taken Pinoy Pride to a whole new level. To serve up a winning Halloween look, grab a tennis racket and wear one of her signature outfits, whether it’s her all-white Wimbledon ensemble or the bright green kit she wore at the DC Open, which fans likened to a calamansi. - Ilya & Shane from Heated Rivalry
Love and hockey come together this Halloween thanks to the whirlwind romance between Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander in Heated Rivalry. The fan-favorite rivals-turned-lovers make for a perfect couples’ Halloween costume, whether you’re channeling Ilya’s Russian hockey-star look or Shane’s Canadian hockey gear. Grab matching hockey jerseys, add a pair of sticks, and get ready to turn your Halloween party into a rink-side romance.
From horror icons and pop legends to Greek gods and sports stars, 2026 has served up plenty of costume gold. Get your costume ready, hit the Halloween party circuit, and smash the competition at this year’s costume contests!