Golden Globes Embrace Podcasts with New Award Category

The Golden Globes, a prestigious annual awards ceremony celebrating excellence in film and television, is expanding its horizons to acknowledge the growing influence and artistry of podcasts. In a groundbreaking announcement made on May 7, the organization revealed the introduction of a new category: Best Podcast of the Year. This addition marks a significant step in recognizing the impact of audio storytelling and its ability to connect with audiences worldwide.

The inaugural Best Podcast award will be presented at the January 2026 Golden Globes ceremony, hosted by the returning Nikki Glaser. The category will feature six nominees, representing the diverse landscape of podcasting. According to the Golden Globes, the award will honor podcasts that have made a substantial impact over the preceding year. To be considered for nomination, podcasts must rank among the top 25 in terms of listenership and overall influence.

While specific eligibility requirements are still under development, the Golden Globes has assured the public that further details will be unveiled in the coming weeks. This announcement has sparked considerable excitement and speculation within the podcasting community, as creators and fans alike eagerly await more information about the criteria for selection.

The decision to include a podcast category underscores the Golden Globes’ commitment to staying relevant in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape. As traditional media consumption habits shift, podcasts have emerged as a powerful force, offering a unique blend of accessibility, intimacy, and diverse content. From investigative journalism and narrative storytelling to comedy and educational programs, podcasts have captured the attention of listeners from all walks of life.

Recent data from Spotify, a leading audio streaming platform, highlights the immense popularity of podcasts. In 2024, "The Joe Rogan Experience" topped the charts as the most popular podcast in the United States, followed by Alex Cooper’s "Call Her Daddy" and Theo Von’s "This Past Weekend." These podcasts represent a wide range of genres and formats, demonstrating the versatility and appeal of the medium.

The addition of the Best Podcast category is not the first time the Golden Globes has expanded its scope to reflect changes in the entertainment industry. Since 2024, the organization has introduced two other new awards: Cinematic and Box Office Achievement and Best Stand-Up Comedy Special. These additions demonstrate the Golden Globes’ proactive approach to recognizing and celebrating excellence across a variety of entertainment platforms.

The Cinematic and Box Office Achievement award, introduced in 2024, aims to honor blockbuster films that have achieved significant commercial success. To be eligible for consideration, films must gross at least $150 million at the worldwide box office. In its inaugural year, "Barbie" took home the prize, followed by "Wicked" in 2025. Notably, winners of the Box Office Achievement category remain eligible for other awards, including Best Picture, demonstrating the Golden Globes’ commitment to recognizing both commercial and artistic merit.

The Best Stand-Up Comedy Special award, also introduced in 2024, recognizes the artistry and comedic talent of stand-up comedians. Ricky Gervais was the inaugural recipient of the award, followed by Ali Wong in 2025. This category acknowledges the importance of stand-up comedy as a vital form of entertainment and a powerful platform for social commentary.

Golden Globes president Helen Hoehne has emphasized the organization’s commitment to embracing new forms of storytelling. "As the world of entertainment continues to evolve, we are excited to recognize new forms of storytelling," Hoehne stated. She further elaborated on the significance of podcasts, noting that they have "emerged as a profound medium for sharing narratives and building communities across global borders and generations."

By celebrating achievements in both audio and visual podcasts, the Golden Globes aims to honor its heritage categories while also making room for new voices and formats to be heard. This inclusive approach reflects the organization’s desire to stay relevant and representative of the diverse landscape of entertainment.

Nikki Glaser, a renowned comedian and television personality, is set to return as host of the 2026 Golden Globes. Glaser made her debut as emcee at the January 2025 ceremony, earning praise for her wit and engaging stage presence. The 2026 Golden Globes event is scheduled to take place on January 11, 2026, promising an evening of celebration, recognition, and entertainment.

The introduction of the Best Podcast category at the Golden Globes marks a significant milestone for the podcasting industry. It not only validates the artistic merit and cultural impact of podcasts but also elevates the medium to a new level of recognition and prestige. As the Golden Globes prepares to unveil the eligibility requirements for the award, the podcasting community eagerly anticipates the opportunity to showcase its talent and innovation on a global stage. The future of audio storytelling looks bright, and the Golden Globes is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping its continued evolution.