On Thursday morning, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the creation of a new competitive Oscar category for greatest achievement in casting.

This is the first addition to the Oscars programme since the best animated feature film category was introduced in 2001, and it will make its debut during the 98th annual ceremony honouring films released in 2025.

The development of this category follows the foundation of the Casting Directors Branch in July 2013, which now has over 160 members.

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang acknowledged their delight in recognising the critical role of casting directors in film production.

They emphasised the Academy’s continual evolution and dedication to recognising and celebrating many disciplines in the industry.

In their statement, Kramer and Yang congratulated members of the Casting Directors Branch on this momentous milestone, praising their efforts and contributions throughout the process.

Richard Hicks, Kim Taylor-Colman, and Debra Zane, governors of the Academy’s Casting Directors Branch, issued a joint statement expressing their appreciation for the newly established Oscar category.

They praised the Board of Governors, the Awards Committee, and Academy leadership for their assistance, hailing the honour as well-deserved recognition of casting directors’ extraordinary abilities.

The eligibility criteria and voting methods for the inaugural award, as well as the whole set of regulations for the 98th Academy Awards, will be made public in April 2025.

The Academy’s Board of Governors and administrative leadership will select the details of the award presentation at a later date.

The 96th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled on Sunday, March 10.