Awards Season 2026 Full Guide: Dates, Hosts & Top Picks

Awards Season 2026: Key Dates, Hosts and Must-Watch Favorites

The 2026 awards season is officially underway and heading toward its grand finale in mid-March. This year’s race is shaping up to be one of contrasts — stylish genre films are battling prestige dramas from some of cinema’s most respected filmmakers.

From blockbuster vampire thrillers to emotionally rich international films, the competition is tighter than ever. Here’s a simple and clear breakdown of important dates, hosts, and the strongest contenders to watch this awards season.

Major Awards Calendar: 2026 Key Dates

Most of the major ceremonies have locked in their schedules, with the Oscars returning to their traditional March slot.

• Golden Globes – January 11, 2026
  Host: Nikki Glaser
  Network: CBS / Paramount+

• Grammy Awards – February 1, 2026
  Host: TBA
  Network: CBS / Paramount+

• BAFTA Film Awards – February 22, 2026
  Host: TBA
  Network: BBC / BritBox

• Screen Actors Guild Awards (SAG) – March 1, 2026
  Host: No host (traditional format)
  Streaming: Netflix

• 98th Academy Awards (Oscars) – March 15, 2026
  Host: Conan O'Brien
  Network: ABC

Who’s Leading the Race in Films

Two movies are dominating early discussions, while several strong challengers are closing in.

• One Battle After Another
  Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, this film has been a critics’ favorite. Leonardo DiCaprio is a major Best Actor frontrunner, while newcomer Chase Infiniti is being praised as the season’s breakout star.

• Sinners
  Ryan Coogler delivers a stylish vampire epic that’s winning praise for its bold visuals and storytelling. Michael B. Jordan is earning serious awards buzz.

• Marty Supreme
  Following its Christmas release, Timothée Chalamet is gaining momentum for his portrayal of a 1950s ping-pong champion.

• Frankenstein
  Netflix’s ambitious adaptation from Guillermo del Toro is expected to dominate technical categories. Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi are both in the acting awards conversation.

• Sentimental Value
  Directed by Joachim Trier, this international favorite could bring Renate Reinsve her first Oscar win.

Top Television Contenders

• The White Lotus – Season 3
  After moving its setting to Thailand, the hit series is once again the strongest competitor in major drama categories.

• Adolescence
  This limited series has become a critical standout and is expected to perform well in ensemble and acting awards.

• Severance – Season 2
  The Apple TV+ series returns to awards discussions, especially for Adam Scott and Britt Lower.

What’s New in Awards Season 2026

• Conan O’Brien Returns
  After a successful hosting debut, Conan O’Brien is back for a second year, promising a fun, unpredictable Oscars ceremony.

• Nikki Glaser at the Golden Globes Again
  Following last year’s sharp and roast-style humor, Glaser’s return signals another bold and edgy Golden Globes night.

• New Podcast Category
  The Golden Globes have introduced Best Podcast for the first time, with early nominees including SmartLess and Call Her Daddy.