LOS ANGELES, CA – The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has announced that a new Oscar category will be introduced in 2026, recognizing achievement in casting for the first time in its history. This announcement marks the first addition to the Academy Awards since the introduction of the best animated feature category in 2002.
The decision to introduce this new category comes as a surprise, considering the pressure the Academy has faced to consolidate the number of awards presented during its annual telecast. With 23 awards currently being handed out, there has been a push to streamline the show in order to retain viewership. However, it is yet to be confirmed whether the casting Oscar will be presented during the telecast.
In recent years, the Academy has shown an increased appreciation for casting directors. While practitioners of the profession have been members of the organization for decades, they were not officially recognized until 2013 when a casting directors branch was established. This move signaled a shift in the Academy’s attitude towards casting directors, which was further solidified when casting director David Rubin was elected as Academy president for the first time in 2019.
In a statement issued by current Academy president Janet Yang and CEO Bill Kramer, it was stated, “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.” This sentiment was echoed by the governors of the Academy’s casting directors branch, who expressed gratitude for the support and recognition of the casting directors’ exceptional talents.
The specifics of the award’s presentation, eligibility rules, and voting procedures will be announced as part of the complete 98th Academy Awards Rules in April 2025. The Academy’s board of governors and administrative leadership will determine the details of the award’s presentation at a later date.
Overall, the introduction of the new Oscar category for casting represents a significant milestone for the Academy, acknowledging the crucial role that casting directors play in the filmmaking process. This decision is a reflection of the Academy’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating the diverse talents that contribute to the art of cinema.