
Oscars Introduce New Casting Award To Be Presented Starting 2026
NDTV
The last new Oscar created was best animated film in 2001
A new Oscar for best casting will be added to the Academy Awards from 2026, organizers announced Thursday. It will be the first competitive new golden statuette added to Hollywood's most important award show in more than two decades. "Casting directors play an essential role in filmmaking, and as the Academy evolves, we are proud to add casting to the disciplines that we recognize and celebrate," Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang said in a statement.
Casting directors are among the first key personnel to join new film projects. They play an integral role in shaping the movies that ultimately reach the big screen, hiring A-list stars and performers for minor roles.
A campaign to add the annual category has been ongoing for several years. Stunt performers are also lobbying for their own Oscar, without success so far.
