The Academy of Motion Pictures Art and Sciences have announced a new category. Starting in 2026, the Academy will bestow an award for best achievement in casting.

This is the first new category since Best Animated Feature in 2002 (which went to the masterpiece Shrek, in case you forgot). The Academy previously announced a "Most Popular" category, but this was scuttled after members rallied against it.

"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. We congratulate our casting directors branch members on this exciting milestone and for their commitment and diligence throughout this process," Academy president Janet Yang and CEO Bill Kramer said (via The Hollywood Reporter).