98th Oscars: New award for casting, 23 other trophies to be given away in 2026

The Academy Awards will expand its list of competitive categories in 2026 with the introduction of a new prize for achievement in casting, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday. The award will debut during the 98th Oscars, scheduled for March 15.

With the addition, the number of competitive awards presented on the live telecast will rise to 24, joining marquee categories such as Best Picture and Best Actor and Actress.

The Academy’s Board of Governors approved the new category last year, but its inclusion in the final broadcast had not been confirmed until now. Aside from the briefly proposed but abandoned “popular film Oscar,” the casting award marks the first new competitive category since Best Animated Feature was introduced in 2001.

The announcement comes as the Academy continues to broaden its recognition of filmmaking disciplines. Earlier this year, it also revealed plans for a stunt design category, set to launch at the 100th Oscars in 2028.

Members of the Casting Directors Branch will oversee the selection process by narrowing submissions to a 10-film shortlist, following procedures similar to those used for categories such as Documentary Feature, International Feature Film, Makeup & Hairstyling, Original Score, Original Song, Sound, Visual Effects and the three short film awards. The shortlists will be announced on December 16, with full nominations to follow on January 22.

The 2026 ceremony will be hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien, who will take the stage at the Dolby Theatre on March 15.