2026 Peabody Awards Entertainment Nominations

Heated Rivalry, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Pitt, Mussolini: Son of the Century, Pluribus, The Rehearsal and Death by Lightning are among the nominees for the 2026 Peabody Awards.

Additional noteworthy nominees include Adolescence, Andor, Dying for Sex, Mo, Forever and Sly Lives! (a.k.a. The Burden of Black Genius).

The organization’s board of jurors announced the nominations across its arts, children’s/youth, entertainment and interactive and immersive categories after revealing the documentary, news, public service and radio/podcast nominees on Tuesday.

The Heated Rivalry nod comes after the queer hockey drama aired on HBO Max over the holidays and quickly became a sensation with stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie rocketing to fame. Kimmel’s nod comes after his show was briefly suspended from ABC last fall following controversial comments about Charlie Kirk’s murder. Hollywood rallied around Kimmel as he’s become an advocate for free speech in the wake of the incident.

And the Peabody nods are just the latest awards recognition for The Pitt, Adolescence, Andor, Death by Lightning, Dying for Sex, Forever, Mussolini, Pluribus and The Rehearsal.

The nominees, designed to recognize impactful storytelling across broadcast and streaming media, were selected by a unanimous vote of 28 jurors from more than 1,000 entries.

The Peabody Awards winners will be announced on April 23 and celebrated May 31 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles.

In addition to the competitive awards, the Peabodys will recognize Amy Poehler, Sterlin Harjo, James L. Brooks and PBS Kids with honors.

“These nominees showcase the power of storytelling at its most urgent and expansive, where art,
entertainment, and innovation collide with the defining issues of our time. From identity and mental
health to political extremism, systemic inequality, and the search for belonging, this work reflects exactly
what the Peabody Awards stand for: stories that challenge, illuminate, and push culture forward.” Peabody executive director Jeffrey Jones said in a statement. “Across every category, these nominees reflect the issues of our times and demand we engage more deeply.”

A complete list of the 2026 Peabody Awards nominees in the arts, childrens’/youth, entertainment and interactive and immersive categories, along with descriptions from the Peabody organization, follow.

ARTS
“Fela Kuti: Fear No Man”
“Fela Kuti: Fear No Man” is a podcast series hosted by Jad Abumrad that explores the life and impact of
Fela Kuti through innovative sound design and more than 200 interviews, highlighting the musician’s role
in shaping post-colonial Nigeria and the African independence movement. The series intricately weaves
personal stories with broader cultural and political narratives, demonstrating the power of art and
activism, and has already garnered significant acclaim, making its way into educational curricula.
Audible, Higher Ground, Western Sound and Talkhouse

“Sly Lives! (a.k.a. The Burden of Black Genius)” (Hulu, Onyx Collective)
This documentary explores the life and legacy of Sly Stone and his groundbreaking band, Sly & the
Family Stone, while delving into the broader themes of the pressures and complexities faced by Black
artists navigating success. Through interviews with other influential artists, the film highlights the
emotional and societal burdens that accompany their achievements, emphasizing the importance of
empathy and understanding in celebrating their contributions to music and culture.
MRC, Network Entertainment Inc., Two One Five Entertainment Inc., RadicalMedia, Stardust Films
LLC, ID8 Multimedia, Inc., and Sony Music Entertainment

ENTERTAINMENT
“Adolescence” (Netflix)
Netflix’s limited series “Adolescence” presents a narrative through four single-take episodes that follow
13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper), who is arrested for the murder of his female classmate,
revealing the complexities of his crime and its impact on those around him. Praised for its unique
storytelling and emotional depth, the series tackles pressing issues such as the “manosphere” and social
media influence on the young, prompting widespread discussions about digital safety and the experiences
of today’s youth.
Warp Films, Matriarch Productions and Plan B for Netflix

“Andor” (Disney+)
Lucasfilm’s political thriller series serves as a prequel to the Star Wars film “Rogue One,” chronicling the
transformation of Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) from a cynical bystander to a pivotal rebel hero against the
totalitarian Empire, while exploring the personal sacrifices and choices that fuel a revolution. The series
emphasizes hope and the power of collective action, providing a nuanced look at both the rebels and the
individuals within the Empire, ultimately highlighting the enduring relevance of its themes of oppression
and resistance in today’s world.
Lucasfilm Ltd.

“Common Side Effects” (Adult Swim)
“Common Side Effects” follows Marshall Cuso (voiced by Dave King), a mushroom expert in Peru who
discovers a potentially revolutionary fungus called “the Blue Angel” that could heal various ailments,
only to find himself pursued by the DEA and pharmaceutical companies. The series, depicted through
hand-drawn animation, explores themes of wellness, corporate greed, and personal struggles, emphasizing
the potential for collective healing and change in a chaotic world.
Green Street Pictures, Bandera Entertainment, and Williams Street

“Death by Lightning” (Netflix)
President James Garfield (Michael Shannon) emerges as a significant historical figure whose life story
embodies the American Dream in this scripted series, which highlights his rise from poverty to the
presidency and his tragic assassination just 119 days into his term. The narrative contrasts Garfield with
his assassin, Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), exploring themes of political violence, mental
illness, and societal rejection, ultimately emphasizing Garfield’s legacy in civil service reform and the
ongoing relevance of his story in today’s political climate.
A Netflix Series / Bighead Littlehead

“Dying for Sex” (FX / Hulu)
This series, based on a true story, explores the life of Molly Kochan (Michelle Williams), a woman living
with terminal cancer who navigates her illness and childhood trauma, blending comedy and profound
honesty in a way that challenges traditional narratives around death and sexuality. The creators aimed to
portray authentically the complexities of living with cancer by consulting experts and individuals with
similar experiences, ultimately depicting a life filled with both struggle and healing, while emphasizing
the importance of embracing life’s realities rather than conforming to societal expectations.
20th Television

“FOREVER” (Netflix)
Netflix’s “FOREVER,” adapted from Judy Blume’s novel, reimagines first love through the lens of Justin
(Michael Cooper Jr.) and Keisha (Lovie Simone)—two Black high school athletes in 2018 Los Angeles,
exploring the pressures of ambition and mental health. The series poignantly addresses the complexities
of teenage struggles, particularly through Justin’s undiagnosed ADHD and Keisha’s experience of trauma,
emphasizing the importance of unconditional support and the intersection of mental health with race and
class in today’s world.
A Netflix Series

“Heated Rivalry” (HBO Max)
“Heated Rivalry” follows hockey stars Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor
Storrie) as their secret romance evolves amidst their fierce rivalry in professional hockey, exploring
themes of ambition, love, and self-discovery over eight years. As they chase glory on the ice, they grapple
with their undeniable feelings for each other, questioning whether they can balance their competitive
careers with a powerful, yet vulnerable, love.
Accent Aigu Entertainment in association with Bell Media’s Crave

“Invisible Boys” (Stan)
A group of gay teens navigate life in the conservative town of Geraldton, Western Australia, facing the
challenges of identity, acceptance, and resilience against the backdrop of the 2017 same-sex marriage
plebiscite. Through the intertwined stories of Charlie (Joseph Zada), Zeke (Aydan Calafiore), Matt (Joe
Klocek), and Hammer (Zach Blampied), the series poignantly explores themes of visibility, toxic
masculinity, and the search for love and belonging, ultimately portraying the emotional complexities of
growing up queer in a rural environment.
Feisty Asphodel

“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” (ABC)
For more than 23 years, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” has used humor and satire to critique powerful figures
and reflect American culture, embracing the responsibility of comedy to reveal truths amid political
volatility. The show faced unprecedented challenges as President Trump’s second administration came to
power, culminating in a brief suspension by ABC (at the behest of the FCC) that sparked a bipartisan
defense of free expression on the airwaves, ultimately reinforcing the importance of satire as a vital form
of democratic speech.
20th Television in association with KIMMELOT

“Mo” (Netflix)
In the show’s second season, Mo (creator-star Mo Amer) finds himself in Mexico, facing down the
immigration system while refusing to compromise his beliefs, ultimately risking everything to cross the
border illegally in search of home. The season combines humor with affecting storytelling to address the
emotional realities of immigrant life, highlighting themes of resilience, belonging, and the often-
overlooked humanity of displaced individuals.
A24 for Netflix

“Mr. Loverman” (BritBox)
“Mr. Loverman,” based on Bernardine Evaristo’s Booker-winning novel, tells the story of Barry (Lennie
James), a 74-year-old married man who has concealed his sexuality, exploring the challenges of older
Black gay love with authenticity. The series, celebrated for its diverse representation and emotional depth,
has achieved remarkable viewership among Black Caribbean audiences and garnered critical acclaim for
its fresh narrative approach and exploration of identity, fostering important conversations within the
Caribbean diaspora about queer identity.
Fable Entertainment for Sony Pictures Television and BBC

“Mussolini: Son of the Century” (MUBI)
This compelling portrayal of Benito Mussolini (Luca Marinelli)—as he transforms from a socialist
journalist to Italy’s ruthless dictator—explores the rise of fascism through a hypermodern lens that
emphasizes political manipulation and corruption. Adapted from Antonio Scurati’s novel, the series delves
into the darker aspects of Mussolini’s character, illustrating how his toxic masculinity and exploitation of
fear led to his ascent, while inviting viewers to reflect on the broader implications of his story in today’s
political landscape.
Sky Studios and Lorenzo Mieli for The Apartment, a Fremantle group company, in co-production with
Pathé, in association with Small Forward Productions, in collaboration with Fremantle, CINECITTÀ
S.p.A. and Sky

“The Pitt” (HBO Max)
“The Pitt” explores the immense challenges faced by emergency room physicians and nurses in a
crumbling American healthcare system. Through gripping narratives, the series highlights issues such as
mental health struggles, violence against healthcare workers, and the impact of rising healthcare costs,
revealing the dedication of frontline workers as they face down a crisis exacerbated by chronic
underfunding and societal neglect.
HBO Max in association with John Wells Productions, R. Scott Gemmill Productions, and Warner Bros.
Television

“Pluribus” (Apple TV)
Carol Sturka (Rhea Seehorn) emerges after a global crisis as one of the few humans immune to a virus
that creates a harmonious hive mind, and her story explores profound existential questions about
individuality, happiness, and the nature of human connection. As Carol grapples with her personal grief
and the loss of her wife, she embarks on a mission to dismantle the collective’s utopia, questioning
whether true happiness can exist without the freedom to choose, and what it truly means to be human in a
world stripped of conflict and suffering.
Sony Pictures Television in association with Apple

“The Rehearsal” (HBO Max)
Season 2 of “The Rehearsal” showcases Nathan Fielder’s innovative storytelling, using his “rehearsal”
approach to life to make a genuine impact on the aviation community with discussions about
communication, training, and mental well-being. The season’s creative approach not only garnered critical
acclaim but also contributed to meaningful legislative changes, such as the Mental Health in Aviation Act,
highlighting Fielder’s unique ability to blend entertainment with social relevance and public
understanding.
HBO in association with Blow Out Productions

CHILDREN’S / YOUTH
“Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur” (Disney+)
Lunella Lafayette (voiced by Diamond White), a genius teen and protector of her New York City
neighborhood, takes on the challenges of superhero life alongside her massive partner, Devil Dinosaur
(Fred Tatasciore). This animated series combines vibrant visuals and original music to tell relatable
coming-of-age stories that emphasize themes of honesty, friendship, and community empowerment, all
while ensuring diverse representation through collaboration with organizations dedicated to authenticity.
Flying Bark Productions, Disney Television Animation, Disney Branded Television

“Shape Island” (Apple TV)
“Shape Island” invites viewers into the whimsical world of Circle (voiced by Gideon Adlon), Square
(Harvey Guillén), and Triangle (Scott Adsit), where small adventures reveal profound truths about
friendship, curiosity, and emotional intelligence. Through playful storytelling and humor, each episode
addresses complex feelings and questions, encouraging both children and adults to connect, empathize,
and appreciate the significance of everyday moments, reinforcing the message that everyone’s story is
valuable and deserving of attention.
Bix Pix Entertainment in association with Apple

INTERACTIVE & IMMERSIVE
“Carbon Cowboys: Stories of Soil Health and Farmer Wealth”
The ‘Carbon Cowboys’ social video project immerses audiences in the story of regenerative agriculture,
transforming traditional documentary viewing into an interactive experience that encourages learning and
community engagement around soil health and sustainable farming practices. By blending cinematic
storytelling with participatory elements on social media, the campaign has garnered more than 150
million views and fostered a grassroots movement, empowering farmers and citizens alike to explore and
support climate-positive agriculture.
Earth School Educational Foundation, Inc.

“Cleared by Fire”
“Cleared by Fire” is an interactive documentary that explores the tragic 2005 Haditha massacre, where
U.S. Marines killed 25 civilians, including a grandfather and a young girl, yet no one was held
accountable. Using a blend of investigative reporting, 3D reconstructions, and personal narratives, the
project allows viewers to engage with multiple perspectives and conflicting accounts surrounding the
incident, aiming to restore individuality and humanity to the victims who are often reduced to mere
statistics in discussions of war.
The New Yorker

“Consume Me”
This semi-autobiographical game by director Jenny Jiao Hsia explores her experiences with dieting and
disordered eating as an Asian American teenager in the early 2010s, using gameplay mechanics to reflect
the emotional and cultural pressures surrounding these issues. Players engage in a Tetris-style mini-game
where they balance Jenny’s diet by managing “bites” while dealing with the consequences of hunger and
calorie limits, thereby immersing themselves in her mindset and the broader societal influences on body
image and self-worth.
Hexecutable LLC

“Education in Ruins: Gaza’s Children on Losing Their Right to Learn”
This compelling interactive journalism piece highlights the devastating impact of conflict on education in
Gaza, showcasing how war has eroded the learning environment for students. Through multimedia
elements such as interactive maps, video interviews, and personal narratives, the piece provides an
immersive experience that humanizes the crisis, emphasizing the voices of students and educators while
offering a nuanced understanding of the urgent educational challenges they face.
CNN Worldwide

“ICE Sweeps Georgia”
This social video series by “The Atlanta Journal-Constitution” captures the realities of immigration
enforcement in Georgia, a state experiencing significant ICE activity. By employing vertical video and
real-time reporting, the series presents deeply reported, character-driven stories that humanize the impact
of immigration policies, and has reached nearly 2.8 million views on platforms like TikTok and
Instagram.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

“Investigating War Crimes in Gaza”
Al Jazeera’s investigation uncovers war crimes in the Gaza Strip using photos and videos posted by Israeli
soldiers on social media, revealing illegal activities such as destruction, looting, and murder. By
compiling a vast database of this material and sharing it through impactful social videos, the project has
reached millions, providing vital eyewitness testimonies and interactive resources to document the
atrocities faced by the people of Gaza.
Al Jazeera English

“One family. One attack. 132 names. A Gaza investigation.”
More than 132 members of the same extended family were killed in a devastating Israeli airstrike on a
Gaza apartment building, as revealed by this NPR investigation. The piece highlights the challenges of
documenting casualties amid ongoing conflict and restricted access for journalists.
NPR

“South of Midnight”
“South of Midnight” is a unique video game that immerses players in the rich, culturally grounded
landscapes of the American South, blending magic and realism as they follow Hazel, a heroine on a quest
to find the mother she lost to a hurricane. Drawing from Southern Gothic traditions, the game explores
themes of history, identity, and resilience, featuring mythical creatures inspired by local folklore, while its
dynamic music and audio design enhance the emotional depth of the story, creating an experience that
feels both intimate and vividly alive.
Compulsion Games