The road to the 98th Oscars has officially begun. This morning, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominees for the 2026 Academy Awards. The Walt Disney Company made a respectable showing, earning five total nominations across its diverse portfolio of studios. These nods highlight Disney’s continued dominance in animation and its technical prowess in live-action filmmaking.
Dominating Animated Feature Film
Disney has once again proven its strength in the Best Animated Feature category. The company secured two of the five coveted spots this year. Zootopia 2, from Walt Disney Animation Studios, received a nomination following its successful theatrical run. Pixar Animation Studios also joined the ranks with its intergalactic adventure, Elio. Both films are considered frontrunners in a highly competitive year for animation.
Beyond feature films, Disney saw success in the short-form category. The Disney+ original Retirement Plan earned a nomination for Best Animated Short Film. This recognition showcases the company’s commitment to diverse storytelling formats across its streaming platforms.
Technical Achievements for Avatar
James Cameron’s latest epic, Avatar: Fire and Ash, continues the franchise’s tradition of technical excellence. The 20th Century Studios production earned two nominations: Best Visual Effects and Best Costume Design. The visual effects team was recognized for pushing the boundaries of motion capture and digital environments. Meanwhile, the costume design nod highlights the intricate work required to bring the world of Pandora to life.
The Ceremony Details
While Disney celebrates its five nods, the competition remains fierce. Ryan Coogler’s Sinners led the field with a record-breaking 16 nominations. Fans can watch the drama unfold when the ceremony airs live on ABC and streams on Hulu on Sunday, March 15, 2026. Conan O’Brien will return to the stage at the Dolby® Theatre for his second consecutive year as host.
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