The Academy Invites 529 New Members for 2026: A Global Push for Diversity and Excellence
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended membership invitations to 529 distinguished artists and executives for 2026. This year’s class prioritizes global representation and inclusion, featuring 95 Oscar nominees and 21 winners from 60 countries and territories.
RMN Stars Academy Desk
New Delhi | June 26, 2026
The Academy Expands Global Membership for 2026
LOS ANGELES, CA — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced its 2026 invited class, welcoming 529 professionals who have made significant impacts on the global film industry. This prestigious group includes a wide array of talent, ranging from 95 Oscar nominees to 21 Academy Award winners and three recipients of Scientific and Technical Awards.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor expressed their enthusiasm for the new cohort, stating, “We are delighted to invite this remarkable group of film artists and professionals from around the world to join the Academy”. They further noted that the 2026 class has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to filmmaking and contributed meaningfully to the global movie industry.
A Star-Studded and Diverse Roster
The 2026 invitees represent 19 different branches of the film industry. Notable names in the Actors branch include:
- Jenna Ortega (“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”)
- Jacob Elordi (“Saltburn”)
- Julia Garner (“The Assistant”)
- Simu Liu (“Barbie”)
- Jon Bernthal (“King Richard”)
Beyond the acting categories, the Academy invited experts in Animation, Casting, Cinematography, and Visual Effects, among others. Nine individuals were invited by multiple branches and must select one upon accepting their membership.
Commitment to Representation and Equity
The Academy continues to emphasize representation, inclusion, and equity as core pillars of its selection process. The 2026 class demographics reflect these priorities:
- 42% are women.
- 56% belong to underrepresented communities.
- 53% are from 60 countries and territories outside the United States.
The Selection Process
Membership in the Academy is a distinction earned through sponsorship, not application. While Academy Award nominees are automatically considered each year, other candidates must be recommended by branch executive committees. These recommendations undergo a rigorous review by the Membership Committee before final approval by the Board of Governors. Those who accept their invitations will be the exclusive additions to the Academy’s membership for the year 2026.
With more than 11,000 members, the Academy remains the world’s premier film organization, dedicated to recognizing cinematic achievement and preserving the history of film through the Academy Museum and its various educational programs.
