2026 Annie Awards Nominations Announced
The Annie Awards, presented annually by ASIFA-Hollywood to celebrate excellence in animation across film and television, has revealed its nominations for the 53rd Annie Awards. The ceremony is scheduled for February 21, 2026, at UCLA’s Royce Hall in Los Angeles, where the winners across multiple categories will be announced.
Recognized as one of the most prestigious honors in animation, the Annie Awards cover a wide range of achievements — from feature films and television series to independent productions, shorts, and individual technical accomplishments. Wikipedia
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Top Contenders in Feature Animation
At the forefront of the 2026 nominations are two major animated films:
Elio
Pixar’s Elio is among the biggest nominees this year, earning a significant number of nominations across key categories, including Best Animated Feature. The film’s imaginative storyline and high-quality animation have garnered attention from critics and peers alike.
KPop Demon Hunters
Netflix and Sony Pictures’ KPop Demon Hunters also leads the pack with multiple nominations, reflecting its creative designs and global popularity. This nomination haul places it among the most anticipated contenders of the year.
Other animated features up for recognition include Little Amélie or the Character of Rain, The Bad Guys 2, and Zootopia 2, showcasing both mainstream and indie animation talents. PR Newswire
Spotlight on Independent Animation
The Annie Awards also highlight independent animation with a dedicated category. Notable independent nominees include:
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A Magnificent Life
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Arco – Remembers
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I’m Frankela
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Lost in Starlight
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Scarlet
These films represent a diverse array of creative voices and artistic styles in animation, bringing fresh perspectives to the medium. PR Newswire
Television and Media Nominees
Television animation nominations are led by Win or Lose, which has emerged as the frontrunner in this realm. The show’s innovative storytelling and engaging characters have positioned it as a standout within the competitive TV/Media category.
Additional nominees span various formats and target audiences, celebrating everything from preschool and children’s programming to mature and limited series animated works. Zippy Frames
Categories to Watch
The Annie Awards span more than 30 categories, including:
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Best Animated Feature
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Best Animated Feature — Independent
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Best Television/Media Production
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Best Short Subject
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Best Special Production
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Outstanding Achievement in Directing, Writing, Character Animation, Music, Production Design, and more PR Newswire
These categories reflect the diverse talents and intricate craftsmanship involved in animation production, from storytelling to technical achievement. Wikipedia
Ceremony Insights
The 53rd Annie Awards ceremony will take place on February 21, 2026, with events beginning in the late afternoon and culminating in the awards presentation. Animation professionals, creators, studios, and fans around the world will be watching as winners are announced. PR Newswire
The Annies are considered a bellwether for other major animation honors and often spotlight contenders in the broader awards season discussions, including the Oscars.
What These Nominations Mean
A strong nomination lineup for films like Elio and KPop Demon Hunters highlights the continued evolution and cultural impact of animated films. With a blend of major studio projects and independent features, this year’s Annie Awards showcase the wide range of innovation in animation storytelling and artistry. PR Newswire
Similarly, television nominees such as Win or Lose underscore the expansion of quality animated content beyond feature films, embracing diverse genres and formats. Wikipedia
This article is based on officially announced nominations and information from the Annie Awards and related press releases. Details, nominee lists, and event programming are subject to change as organizers finalize plans for the awards ceremony. This article is intended for informational purposes only.