Peabody Awards 2026 Nominations: Documentary, News, Podcasts, More

The Peabody Awards has revealed its 2026 nominees in the documentary, news, public service and radio/podcast categories. Selected were nine news broadcasts, six radio/podcast episodes, four pieces of public service and 22 documentaries.

The nominees were chosen by a unanimous vote of 28 jurors from over 1,000 entries from television,
podcasts/radio and the web. Nominees in arts, children’s/youth, entertainment and interactive & immersive will be announced on Thursday.

The 86th Annual Peabody Awards winners will be announced on April 23 and honored on Sunday, May 31, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills.

As previously announced, Amy Poehler will be honored with the Peabody career achievement award, Sterlin Harjo will be given the Peabody trailblazer award, James L. Brooks will be honored with the Peabody industry icon award and PBS Kids will be recognized with the Peabody institutional award.

“Whether it’s America’s culture of gun violence, the generational effects of social media and big tech, inequities in governmental systems, or exploring mortality through an incurable ovarian cancer diagnosis, these nominees cut straight to the heart of the moment—fearless, unflinching reporting and storytelling that exposes injustice, amplifies unheard voices, and reflects exactly why the Peabody Awards exist: to honor work that informs, challenges, and drives meaningful change.” said Peabody executive director Jeffrey Jones.

Here are the Peabody nominees for documentary, news, public service and radio/podcast:
NEWS

NEWS

“Blood Parliament” (BBC iPlayer)
Logline: “‘Blood Parliament’ is a groundbreaking journalism piece that combines traditional reporting with innovative digital investigation techniques to expose the extrajudicial killings of innocent protesters by Kenya’s security forces. Using more than 5,000 photos and videos, the film reconstructs the events surrounding the protests, leading to widespread viewership and significant social impact, particularly among marginalized Gen Z Kenyans, igniting discussions and calls for accountability while inspiring a new generation of digital detectives in the country.” (BBC World Service)

“Fault Lines: ‘Kids Under Fire’ and ‘The Disappearance of Dr. Abu Safiya’” (Al Jazeera English)
Logline: “’Fault Lines’ tackles the Gaza conflict in two excellent packages. ‘Kids Under Fire’ follows Dr. Mimi Syed as she advocates for more attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where she treated at least 18 children with gunshots to the head or chest. ‘The Disappearance of Dr. Abu Safiya’ tells the story of another doctor, one who continued to treat patients at a northern Gaza hospital even as the Israeli military forcibly cleared the region and attacked the hospital until he was taken into indefinite custody. He continues to be detained 16 months later amid reports that he’s been subjected to ‘severe torture,’ according to the United Nations.” (Al Jazeera English)

“Filmed in Gaza” (NBC News)
Logline: “This documentary chronicles the lives of two NBC News journalists who, for 22 months, became the network’s sole on-the-ground presence as the conflict unfolded in the Gaza Strip. Through their eyes, the viewer is offered a rare look at what it was like to document everyday life in Gaza during the Israel- Hamas war.” (NBC News)

“Immigration Crackdown” (PBS News Hour)
Logline: “‘PBS News Hour’ presented comprehensive and sustained coverage of the Trump administration’s radical changes in U.S. immigration policy, including birthright citizenship, refugee resettlement, asylum procedures, mass deportations, military deployments to U.S. cities, and institutional realignments inside immigration enforcement agencies. The program’s reporting included breaking news coverage as well as deeper historical context, policy analysis, institutional accountability, and real-world impact.” (PBS News Hour)

“Los Angeles Burning” (ABC News and KABC, Los Angeles)
Logline: “Reporters from both the local and national ABC News organizations mobilized across Los Angeles for thorough, on-the-scene coverage of the catastrophic fires of January 2025, even as two dozen of the local reporters were evacuated from their own homes and two had homes that burned to the ground. The coverage was crucial to residents trying to decide when to leave and when to return, while continuing coverage highlighted preparedness, environmental justice, infrastructure, and lasting effects.” (ABC News and KABC-TV, Los Angeles)

“Restrained” (ABC / KMBC 9)
Logline: “A KMBC 9 investigation revealed that at least 102 individuals across 29 states died or were injured due to the misuse of restraint chairs by law enforcement, often involving excessive force such as beating or tasing restrained inmates, highlighting significant gaps in training and policy. Following the investigation, more than 50 sheriffs in Missouri and Kansas updated their restraint policies, and the National Institute for Jail Operations recommended the content for national training, signaling a push for reform in how restraint systems are managed in correctional facilities.” (KMBC 9)

“The Rise and Fall of Terrorgram” (PBS)
Logline: “‘The Rise and Fall of Terrorgram’ investigates how young people are radicalized by online extremist communities to commit acts of terror, highlighting the dangerous influence of unregulated internet spaces that foster hate and violence. Through compelling interviews and meticulous research, the documentary exposes the methods used by extremists and traces the expansion of the Terrorgram network, revealing the vulnerabilities of youth to online fearmongering rooted in racism, antisemitism, and homophobia.” (Frontline/PBS, ProPublica)

“Syria’s Detainee Files” (PBS)
Logline: “This chronicle of systematic enforced disappearances and torture under the Assad regime focuses on testimonies from former regime insiders and a survivor, Shadi Haroun, who spent nearly a decade in detention. Through extensive reporting over two years, the film reveals the complexities of the people involved in the oppressive system while providing a comprehensive account of the mechanisms of abuse, ultimately serving as critical documentation of the regime’s crimes as it faced its downfall in December 2024.” (Frontline/PBS, BBC)

“Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller” (National Geographic)
Logline: “Journalist Mariana van Zeller investigates the world’s most dangerous black markets, exploring various underworlds such as fentanyl trafficking, illegal street racing, and bride smuggling, to uncover the complexities of the multitrillion-dollar shadow economy. In her episodes, she highlights critical issues, including anti-LGBTQ+ violence and human trafficking, revealing how organized crime and exploitation operate globally.” (Muck Media)

PODCAST AND RADIO

“Aftermath: Hunt for the Anthrax Killer”
Logline: “The podcast series ‘Aftermath’ delves into the 2001 anthrax attacks that struck terror across America, exploring one of the largest FBI investigations in history and uncovering the emotional and societal fallout from the events. Through interviews with key figures, archival media, and in-depth analysis, the series reveals startling truths (including the identity of the perpetrator) while examining the broader implications for public safety and the psychological impact on the nation.” (Wolf Entertainment, USG Audio, Dig Studios, Spoke Media and CBC)

“Divine Intervention”
Logline: “‘Divine Intervention’ is a ten-part audio documentary that uncovers the radical Catholic left’s resistance during the Vietnam War, highlighting the bold actions of nuns and priests who challenged the FBI and staged the first political sanctuary in centuries. Through the personal stories of activists and intense courtroom battles, host Brendan Patrick Hughes explores themes of faith, rebellion, and the complexities of confronting injustice, ultimately offering a compelling blueprint for modern activism.” (Wonder Media Network and iHeart Media)

“The Hand that Rocks the Gavel”
Logline: “This episode of ‘This American Life’ opens in a New York federal immigration court, revealing how immigrants attending mandatory hearings were unexpectedly detained by ICE, raising concerns about the role of judges in the face of such raids. Through interviews with laid-off judges and insights from immigration policy officials, the episode uncovers the systemic undermining of due process and the changing role of immigration judges under the Trump administration, highlighting an ongoing crisis faced by asylum seekers and potential long-term implications for the rule of law in the United States.” (This American Life)

“Scam Inc”
Logline: “‘Scam Inc’ is an eight-part narrative podcast from ‘The Economist’ that uncovers the vast and organized world of online fraud, estimated to generate more than $500 billion annually, rivaling the illegal drug trade. Through meticulous reporting, the series reveals the complex operations behind modern scams, featuring stories of victims and scammers, while prompting global conversations among leaders in technology and policy to address this escalating crisis.” (The Economist)

“A Tiny Plot”
Logline: “This five-part public radio documentary from KQED’s Snap Studios follows a group of unhoused individuals in Oakland who band together to resist eviction and create their own community in Union Point Park, challenging traditional perceptions of homelessness. Through intimate storytelling and immersive reporting, journalist Shaina Shealy highlights the residents’ resilience and resourcefulness, revealing their daily struggles and the systemic challenges they face, ultimately urging listeners to view unhoused individuals with dignity and complexity.” (Snap Judgment, KQED, PRX)

“When We All Get to Heaven”
Logline: “‘When We All Get to Heaven’ is a ten-part audio documentary that uncovers the powerful stories preserved in 1,200 cassette tapes from a queer church in San Francisco during the AIDS crisis, highlighting the resilience and creativity of LGBTQ Christians amid loss and isolation. Through a blend of archival recordings and contemporary interviews, the series illustrates how the church became a sanctuary for its community, honoring both their faith and queerness while fostering joy and connection during a time of profound grief.” (Eureka Street Productions)

PUBLIC SERVICE

“Critical Condition: Health in Black America” (PBS)
Logline: “In the documentary ‘Critical Condition: Health in Black America,’ filmmaker Stanley Nelson explores the historical and environmental factors contributing to significant health disparities faced by Black Americans, who suffer from higher rates of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. The film critiques persistent myths in medical science and highlights the effects of systemic racism on health outcomes, while also promoting discourse and solutions through a robust outreach campaign aimed at educating communities and healthcare institutions about these pressing issues.” (A Nova Production by Firelight Films for GBH)

“Left To Their Own Devices”
Logline: “‘Left To Their Own Devices’ is a ten-part investigative podcast hosted by Ava Smithing that examines the devastating effects of technology and social media on Gen Z, particularly highlighting issues such as mental health crises and exploitation of minors. Through personal narratives, expert interviews, and compelling evidence, the series reveals how the profit-driven designs of social media platforms exacerbate harm, and it empowers youth to advocate for change and accountability from Big Tech.” (Toronto Star, Paradigms)

“Neither Male Nor Female: Intersex” (Noticias Telemundo Ahora)
Logline: “This Noticias Telemundo special examines the implications of an executive order by President Trump defining sex strictly as male or female, effectively erasing intersex individuals from federal recognition and complicating their access to healthcare and official documentation. Through the personal stories of two intersex Latinos, Leslie Oquendo and Morgan Mayfaire, the documentary sheds light on the complexities of intersex identities and the intertwined struggles of intersex and transgender communities, emphasizing the need for evidence-based policies that honor bodily autonomy and gender identity.” (Noticias Telemundo)

“Trump’s Power & the Rule of Law” (PBS)
Logline: “‘Trump’s Power & the Rule of Law’ is a 90-minute ‘Frontline’ documentary that investigates the significant actions taken by President Trump during his second term, which critics argue represent an unprecedented assault on democracy and the rule of law. Through interviews with Trump’s allies, legal experts, and journalists, the film explores the historical context of executive power, revealing the ongoing battle over presidential authority and prompting viewers to consider how far a president can go before facing institutional pushback.” (Frontline/PBS)

DOCUMENTARIES

“2000 Meters to Andriivka” (PBS)
Logline: “This feature documentary by Mstyslav Chernov focuses on the intense battle for the strategic Ukrainian village of Andriivka during the summer of 2023, exploring the broader implications of warfare and the emotional toll on soldiers. By intertwining his own footage with that from drones and helmet cameras, Chernov immerses viewers in the realities of modern combat, prompting reflections on the costs of reclaiming territory and the meaning of liberation amidst destruction.” (Frontline/PBS and The Associated Press)

“The Alabama Solution” (HBO Max)
Logline: “In 2019, filmmakers gained rare access to document a revival meeting inside an Alabama prison, leading to a six-year investigation into the state’s deadly prison system, characterized by corruption, violence, and neglect. By communicating with incarcerated activists Robert Earl Council and Melvin Ray, the film exposes systemic issues, including brutal conditions and high mortality rates, while advocating for transparency and justice in a system that often operates in secrecy.” (HBO Documentary Films; Hit The Ground Running)

“Art Spiegelman: Disaster Is My Muse” (PBS American Masters)
Logline: “This documentary explores the life and work of Art Spiegelman, best known for his Pulitzer prizewinning graphic novel ‘Maus,’ as he emerges as a leading advocate for free speech in response to book bans and rising authoritarianism. The film highlights Spiegelman’s impactful contributions to the world of comics and art, showcasing how he uses his medium to address personal and collective histories while championing the importance of subversive storytelling in contemporary culture.” (Zipatone Films, LLC, American Masters, Pollyanna)

“Barbara Walters: Tell Me Everything” (Hulu)
Logline: “This film showcases the groundbreaking career of Barbara Walters, the first woman to anchor a network news broadcast, highlighting her transformation of journalism through powerful interviews and her ability to confront authority with empathy. Directed by Jackie Jesko, the film combines archival footage and insights from notable figures to reveal Walters’ personal struggles and triumphs, ultimately illustrating the complexities of her pioneering role in a male-dominated field and the ongoing challenges women face in media today.” (ABC News Studios)

“Can’t Look Away: The Case Against Social Media” (JOLT.film)
Logline: “‘Can’t Look Away’ addresses the urgent public health crisis posed by social media’s unchecked power, focusing on the heartbreaking stories of families affected by its harmful impact on young people. By embedding with grieving families and legal advocates, the film combines personal narratives with investigative reporting to spark critical conversations about social media reform and encourage viewers to reflect on their own digital relationships. (Bloomberg Originals / DCTV)

“Come See Me in the Good Light” (Apple TV)
Logline: “Poet-activist Andrea Gibson and their partner Megan Falley confront Andrea’s incurable ovarian cancer diagnosis as cameras follow them, exploring how this journey deepens their love and appreciation for life. The documentary encourages open conversations about mortality while showcasing the couple’s resilience, humor, and art, ultimately serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and joy.” (Apple / Tripod Media / Amplify Pictures / Treat Media / Something Fierce Productions)

“Critical Incident: Death at the Border” (HBO Max)
Logline: “‘Critical Incident’ investigates the U.S. Border Patrol, beginning with the in-custody death of Anastasio Hernandez Rojas, and ultimately revealing a culture of violence and impunity within the agency. Through shocking eyewitness footage and leaked internal documents, the film uncovers the existence of off-the books teams designed to protect agents from accountability, prompting multiple Congressional investigations and highlighting the urgent need for oversight and reform in a powerful law enforcement organization.” (HBO Documentary Films presents in association with Midnight Films, crazyrose, Film 45)

“Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time” (National Geographic)
Logline: “Centering the experiences of New Orleans’ predominantly Black communities during and after Hurricane Katrina, this documentary series emphasizes personal accounts from those directly affected rather than sensationalized media narratives. The series highlights systemic inequities and the government’s failures, revealing how the storm exacerbated existing social injustices while providing a platform for local voices to reclaim their story and share resilience, grief, and wisdom for future generations.” (Lightbox and Proximity Media)

“Love+War” (National Geographic)
Logline: “‘Love+War’ profiles Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario, exploring her experiences in war zones while balancing the complexities of her home life. The film illustrates how her powerful images not only document the human cost of conflict but also drive social change, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of journalism and highlighting the universal struggle between ambition and familial obligations.” (Little Monster Films)

“Mr. Nobody Against Putin” (BBC Four)
Logline: “Following Pavel ‘Pasha’ Talankin, a beloved Russian teacher who is reluctantly pulled into the state propaganda machine amid the invasion of Ukraine, this film documents the troubling transformation of his school and community. As he captures intimate footage of the regime’s militarization of youth and faces increasing danger, Pasha becomes an international whistleblower, ultimately planning a perilous escape from Russia.” (Made in Copenhagen in co-production with Pink)

“Mr. Scorsese” (Apple TV)
Logline: “‘Mr. Scorsese’ delves into the life and artistic journey of filmmaker Martin Scorsese, exploring the profound connections between his personal experiences and the themes in his films. Through extensive conversations, archival footage, and insights from collaborators, the series captures Scorsese’s evolution as an artist shaped by his upbringing, spirituality, and the complexities of human nature, ultimately portraying him as an empathetic figure who transforms personal struggles into powerful storytelling.” (Apple / Expanded Media / Round Films / LBI Entertainment Production / Moxie Pictures)

“No Other Land”
Logline: “Basel Adra, a young Palestinian activist from the Masafer Yatta region, documents the destruction of his community by Israeli forces while he and Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham fight against their starkly unequal realities. Their film, created by a Palestinian-Israeli collective during oppressive times, aims to challenge the ongoing expulsion and propose a vision of equality.” (Antipode Films)

“Pee-wee as Himself” (HBO Max)
Logline: ‘Pee-wee as Himself’ explores the complex life of Paul Reubens, known as Pee-wee Herman, highlighting his artistic influences and the backlash he faced, particularly after his 1991 arrest. The film captures the emotional struggle between Reubens and the filmmaker over narrative control, ultimately paying tribute to his legacy as a groundbreaking artist while addressing issues of identity, sexuality, and the impact of public perception on personal lives.” (HBO Documentary Films presents an Elara & First Love Films Production)

“The Perfect Neighbor” (Netflix)
Logline: “This documentary explores the tragic killing of Ajike ‘AJ’ Owens, a Black mother shot by her white neighbor under Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, highlighting systemic biases that often protect aggressors. Through extensive police footage and community testimonies, the film aims to reclaim narratives around racial violence, provoke reflection on justice and accountability, and challenge laws that endanger Black lives, while ensuring transparency and support for Ajike’s family throughout the filmmaking process.” (A Netflix Documentary / A Message Pictures production in association with SO’B Productions and Park Pictures)

“Predators” (Paramount+)
Logline: “Critically examining the true crime genre, particularly through the lens of the television show ‘To Catch a Predator,’ this documentary highlights the complicity of filmmakers, journalists, and audiences in perpetuating cycles of harm for entertainment. It employs a blend of archival material, verité journalism, and interviews, confronting the blurred lines between journalism and entertainment in a post-truth society, ultimately inviting viewers to reflect on their moral and emotional engagement with such narratives.” (Sweet Relief, MTV Documentary Films, Rosewater Pictures)

“Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk”
Logline: “‘Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk’ provides an intimate view of life in Gaza through video calls between director Sepideh Farsi and Palestinian photojournalist Fatma Hassona, who captures the struggles and resilience of her generation amid ongoing conflict. Tragically, Fatma and her family were killed by an Israeli airstrike shortly after the film’s selection for the Cannes Film Festival, making it a heartfelt memorial to her life and artistry. (Rêves d’Eau Productions)

“Southpaw—The Life and Legacy of Jim Abbott” (ESPN)
Logline: “Jim Abbott, born without a right hand, defied the odds to become a celebrated baseball pitcher, achieving fame in the Major Leagues and notably pitching a no-hitter for the New York Yankees in 1993. His journey, marked by struggles with being a reluctant role model, continues to inspire and resonate with disabled and limb-different individuals worldwide, making “Southpaw” a powerful narrative about ingenuity and identity.” (ESPN)

“The Strike” (PBS)
Logline: “‘The Strike’ chronicles the 2013 hunger strike by 30,000 prisoners at Pelican Bay, a supermax prison notorious for its use of solitary confinement, highlighting the personal stories of the hunger strikers and the broader implications of their resistance. Through a blend of firsthand testimonies, archival footage, and insights from prison officials, the film explores the impact of solitary confinement and emphasizes the power of collective action and solidarity among marginalized communities, resonating deeply with audiences both inside and outside of prison walls.” (LPB, ITVS)

“Sunday Best: The Untold Story of Ed Sullivan” (Netflix)
Logline: “This documentary celebrates the pivotal role of Black artistry in American culture, showcasing legendary performers such as The Supremes, James Brown, and Harry Belafonte, whose contributions transcended entertainment to drive social and cultural change. By highlighting Ed Sullivan’s inclusive vision as a television host, the film illustrates how his commitment to showcasing talent, regardless of race, reshaped national identity and expanded representation during a time of segregation, while maintaining a focus on honoring Black creative voices through its storytelling.” (Delirio Films, MPS Legacy Productions, SOFA Entertainment, Mass Appeal, Diamond Docs, MRC)

“Thoughts & Prayers” (HBO Max)
Logline: “‘Thoughts & Prayers’ explores the normalization of gun violence in America by highlighting the culture and industry that has emerged around survival, including lockdown drills and bulletproof backpacks. The film shifts the focus from traditional narratives of policy and victimhood to the everyday experiences of individuals adapting to a life of constant threat, raising critical questions about whether these safety rituals signify true preparedness or a surrender to violence.” (HBO Documentary Films presents a Tony Tina Production)

“Vietnam: The War That Changed America” (Apple TV)
Logline: “This documentary series on the Vietnam War aims to present the conflict through a deeply personal and emotional lens, focusing on the experiences of individuals on the ground, including marginalized voices such as Vietnamese civilians, women, and Black veterans. By combining extensive archival footage with intimate storytelling, the series explores the complexities of war, highlighting moments of both darkness and love, ultimately revealing the profound impact of the conflict on those who lived it.” (Apple / 72 Films)

“The White House Effect” (Netflix)
Logline: “‘The White House Effect’ explores the pivotal moment in 1988 when climate change emerged as a serious political issue, highlighting the bipartisan potential for action led by then-Vice President George H.W. Bush and his administration. Utilizing exclusively archival materials, the film reveals how the initial momentum for addressing global warming was lost to political divisiveness and corporate interests, ultimately urging audiences to reflect on the choices that have shaped our climate crisis and the importance of collective action for the future.” (Actual Films, The Department of Motion Pictures)