Oscars 2026 expands to include 'Casting'

98th Academy Awards ceremony on March 15 to broadcast all 24 awards

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has confirmed that the 2026 Oscars broadcast will feature all 24 awards, including a new prize recognising achievement in casting.

The addition of the casting award marks the first new category on the Oscars broadcast since best animated feature was introduced in 2001. The new recognition follows the academy's earlier announcement of a stunt design award, set to debut at the 100th Oscars in 2028.

Major categories such as best picture, best actor, and best actress will remain centre stage, now accompanied by the casting award, which the Academy previously announced in 2025.

Members of the casting directors branch will shortlist 10 films for consideration, mirroring processes used in categories such as documentary, international film, makeup and hairstyling, score, song, sound, visual effects, and the three short film awards.

Shortlists will be revealed on December 16, with final nominees announced on January 22. The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15, with ABC airing the live ceremony at 7pm ET.

Conan O'Brien has already been confirmed to return as host of the ceremony, ensuring a mix of comedy and entertainment alongside the awards presentations.

The Academy emphasises that the inclusion of the casting prize reflects its ongoing effort to recognise contributions from across the filmmaking process, highlighting the importance of casting in shaping performances and storytelling on screen.

This marks a milestone for the Oscars, demonstrating the Academy's commitment to evolving the ceremony while maintaining its tradition of honouring cinematic excellence in both high-profile and behind-the-scenes categories.