The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a significant change for the 2026 Oscars ceremony that will please film purists and industry professionals alike. For the first time in recent memory, the broadcast will feature all 24 competitive award categories, including the newly established prize for achievement in casting.
Complete Award Show Experience
This decision marks a departure from recent years where certain technical and craft categories were presented during commercial breaks or in pre-show segments. The announcement, made public on November 19, 2025, confirms that viewers will witness every award presentation during the main broadcast.
The inclusion of the new casting award represents a major victory for casting directors who have long advocated for recognition during the televised ceremony. This category acknowledges the crucial role casting professionals play in bringing films to life and shaping cinematic storytelling.
Historical Context and Industry Impact
Oscar statuettes have symbolized cinematic excellence since the first Academy Awards in 1929. The decision to showcase all categories reflects the Academy's commitment to honoring every aspect of filmmaking. Previous ceremonies had drawn criticism for relegating certain awards to off-air presentations, a practice that many in the industry found disrespectful to the craftspeople involved.
The 2026 broadcast will now feature the complete spectrum of film artistry, from acting and directing to editing, sound design, and the newly added casting category. This comprehensive approach ensures that all contributors to the filmmaking process receive equal recognition during Hollywood's biggest night.
What This Means for Viewers
Audiences tuning into the 2026 Oscars can expect a longer but more complete viewing experience. The decision to include all awards means the broadcast will likely run closer to its traditional three-hour format without the controversial editing that had become common in recent years.
Film enthusiasts and industry professionals have largely welcomed this change, seeing it as a return to the ceremony's roots of celebrating all aspects of filmmaking. The addition of the casting award also introduces a new competitive category that will generate additional excitement and speculation during awards season.
The 2026 Oscars ceremony promises to be a landmark event that fully honors the collaborative nature of filmmaking while introducing a long-overdue recognition for casting directors. The complete broadcast of all 24 categories ensures that every Oscar winner will have their moment in the spotlight.
