Animation industry prepares for competitive 2026 awards season

The animation industry is experiencing a shift in influence and upcoming competition for major awards. Following a year of mediocre performances from several major American studios, the 2026 Best Animated Feature race is expected to see stronger contenders. Upcoming projects include Pixar's ‘Toy Story 5’ and ‘Hoppers’, Laika's ‘Wildwood’, and DreamWorks's ‘Forgotten Island’.

In tandem with these industry shifts, The Hollywood Reporter has launched its inaugural Animation Power List. This initiative aims to recognize influential figures across film, television, and online platforms, ranging from major studio heads and A-list directors to character designers and voice actors like Eric Bauza. The list highlights the diversifying landscape of animation, which now encompasses everything from massive studio blockbusters to independent YouTube creators and global streaming phenomena.