The nominations for the 98th Academy Awards were announced on January 22, 2026, by actors Lewis Pullman and Danielle Brooks in California. This year’s awards, set to take place on March 15, are notable not only for their nominees but also for significant changes in the categories being recognized.
One of the most prominent additions this year is the inclusion of casting as a separate category. For the first time, up to two casting directors per film will have the opportunity to be honored with an award. This move reflects a growing recognition of the crucial role casting plays in the filmmaking process. Additionally, plans are already in motion to introduce a new category for stunt design by the time of the 100th Academy Awards in 2027.
The upcoming Oscars will feature a total of 24 categories, with the prestigious Best Picture category hosting 10 nominees. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their excitement in a March 2025 press release, highlighting their decision to bring back comedian Conan O’Brien as host after a successful prior event. They described O’Brien as “the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth, and reverence.” O’Brien himself humorously remarked, “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech.”
In a strategic move for the future, the Academy announced in December 2025 that the awards broadcast will transition to YouTube starting in 2029, with a contract extending through 2033. This decision is part of a broader strategy to adapt to changing viewing habits and reach a wider audience.
As the excitement builds for the 2026 Oscars, the nominees have generated significant buzz. Here are some of the standout nominations for key categories:
– **Best Picture**
– *Sinners*
– *Sentimental Value*
– *One Battle After Another*
– **Best Casting**
– *Dear Me* (Diane Warren: Relentless)
– *Train Dreams*
– **Best Costume Design**
– *Frankenstein*
– *Forevergreen*
– *Butcher’s Stain*
– **Best Documentary Feature Film**
– *The Perfect Neighbor*
– *Armed Only With a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud*
– **Best International Feature Film**
– *The Voice of Hind* (Tunisia)
With a lineup that celebrates diverse storytelling and artistic achievements, the 98th Academy Awards promise to be a memorable night for filmmakers and audiences alike. As viewers eagerly await the ceremony, the focus on fresh categories and a renowned host signals a vibrant future for this celebrated event.
