May
Golden Globes Introduce Unconventional ‘Best Podcast’ Category for 2026 Awards
In a surprising move, the Golden Globes will introduce a new Best Podcast category at their 2026 ceremony, expanding the traditionally film-and-TV-focused awards show to include audio storytelling.
The announcement comes as the Globes seek to redefine their identity amid shifts in the entertainment landscape. The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) cited the “extraordinary and diverse talents in podcasting” and the medium’s “seismic growth” as key reasons for the addition.
“As the world of entertainment continues to evolve, we are excited to recognize new forms of storytelling,” said HFPA president Helen Hoehne. She described podcasts as “a profound medium for sharing narratives and building communities across global borders and generations.”
Hoehne emphasized that the new category will honor both audio and video podcasts, aiming to celebrate emerging voices while maintaining respect for traditional media. “By celebrating achievements in both audio and visual podcasts, we aim to honor our heritage categories while making room for new voices and formats to be heard,” she added.
The nomination process for the Best Podcast award will begin by selecting 25 qualifying shows, from which six finalists will be chosen. Full eligibility criteria and submission guidelines will be released soon.
Meanwhile, comedian Nikki Glaser will return as host for the 2026 ceremony, following her acclaimed debut in 2025.
The Globes’ new category reflects a broader industry trend of expanding recognition across entertainment formats. The Academy Awards, for example, recently announced plans to introduce categories for stunts and casting in future shows.
With podcasts increasingly fronted by celebrities like Michelle Obama, Dax Shepard, Kelly Ripa, and Bowen Yang, the Globes’ embrace of the format underscores its growing cultural and artistic impact.
The 2026 Golden Globe Awards will air Sunday, January 11.
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