George Clooney's 'Jay Kelly' Oscar chances, by the numbers

The Oscars have officially recognized casting directors for the first time, introducing a new award category that highlights the crucial role these professionals play in the film industry. This recognition comes as part of an effort to enhance the awards show and engage a broader audience, reflecting a shift towards valuing all aspects of filmmaking.

Laura Dern, an accomplished actress, draws inspiration from her parents in her performances, which has allowed her to seamlessly transition into diverse roles in the upcoming projects 'Is This Thing On?' and 'Jay Kelly.' Having been raised in a film environment, Dern feels at ease on set, making her latest roles feel instinctive and natural.

The Oscars have embraced artificial intelligence, allowing machine-generated films to be considered for awards as voting begins. This marks a significant shift in the entertainment industry, where AI's role is increasingly prominent, as highlighted in Deadline's 'Rendering' column. The column explores how AI is reshaping various aspects of showbiz, including production design and storytelling.

The nominations for the 2026 Golden Globes have been announced, showcasing a diverse array of films and performances, including notable titles such as 'One Battle After Another' and 'The White Lotus'. The ceremony is set to take place on January 11, 2026, marking the beginning of the Hollywood awards season leading up to the Oscars in March.