Oscars 2026 Broadcast to Feature All 24 Awards, Including Historic Casting Category

The Academy Awards will present a new prize for casting achievement in 2026. This marks the first new category added to the live broadcast in over two decades. The 98th Oscars ceremony is scheduled for March 15.

The decision confirms that all 24 competitive awards will be televised. According to The Associated Press, the academy’s board of governors approved the new category last year. Its inclusion in the main broadcast was finalized recently.

Expanding the Academy’s Recognition

The achievement in casting award is a significant milestone. It represents the first new Oscar category since best animated feature was introduced in 2001. This ends years of campaigning for recognition by casting directors.

A new stunt design award is also in development. That category is planned for the 100th Oscars in 2028. The academy continues to evolve its recognition of film crafts.

How the New Award Process Will Work

The path to the casting Oscar will follow a familiar pattern. Members of the casting directors branch will first select a shortlist of ten films. This shortlist will be announced on December 16.

Final nominations across all categories come on January 22. The process mirrors other specialized categories like visual effects and score. This ensures a thorough and peer-reviewed selection.

The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC. Comedian Conan O’Brien has been confirmed as the host. The show begins at 7 p.m. Eastern Time.

The 2026 Oscars will be a historic event, celebrating filmmaking excellence across 24 categories. This expansion ensures that the vital craft of casting finally receives its deserved spotlight on cinema’s biggest night.

Info at your fingertips

What is the new Oscar category for 2026?

The Academy is adding an award for achievement in casting. This will be the 24th competitive Oscar category presented during the live broadcast.

When will the 2026 Oscars take place?

The 98th Academy Awards are scheduled for March 15, 2026. The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC from the Dolby Theatre.

Who is hosting the 2026 Oscars?

Television host and comedian Conan O’Brien will host the ceremony. This will be his first time hosting the Academy Awards.

How will films be nominated for the casting Oscar?

Casting branch members will create a shortlist of ten films. Final nominees will be chosen from this shortlist and announced in January.

Are any other new categories planned?

Yes, the Academy plans to introduce a stunt design award in 2028. This will coincide with the 100th Oscars ceremony.

Trusted Sources

The Associated Press