Aubrey Plaza invited to Academy headlines a diverse new round of acceptances by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, as Ariana Grande, Sebastian Stan, and other talented figures were invited to join the organization deciding the Oscars, while notable omissions like Karla Sofía Gascón have drawn comment. The Academy announced Thursday that 534 actors, executives, and professionals have received invitations this year, expanding its membership ahead of the 2026 Oscars voting.
Noteworthy New Invites to the Academy
Among the most recognized talents now invited are Aubrey Plaza, acclaimed for roles such as in “Emily the Criminal,” pop star and “Wicked” actress Ariana Grande, and Sebastian Stan, known for his portrayal of Donald Trump in “The Apprentice.” This round of invitations is significant as the Academy now boasts more than 10,000 members.
Other notable invitees include respected actors like Fernanda Torres, recent Oscar-winning Kieran Culkin for “A Real Pain,” Mikey Madison who earned Best Actress for “Anora,” and Margaret Qualley, featured in the Oscar-winning “The Substance.” Audiences will also recognize Gillian Anderson, Jason Momoa, Naomi Ackie, Jodi Comer, Jeremy Strong, and Danielle Deadwyler among the newly invited members.
Karla Sofía Gascón’s Notable Exclusion
Despite hundreds joining, the absence of Karla Sofía Gascón from the invite list has sparked talk within the film community. Gascón, the lead in “Emilia Perez,” made history by becoming the first openly transgender actor to earn an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. However, while Academy Award nominees are considered for membership, the final selection is determined by the 55-member Board of Governors, who weigh recommendations from branches like actors or writers.
Gascón’s omission follows recent controversy regarding remarks she made about fellow nominee Fernanda Torres of “I’m Still Here,” as well as statements on social media that were seen as offensive to Islam. Despite this, “Emilia Perez” impressed critics, earning 13 Oscar nominations including Best Picture, and saw Zoe Saldaña recognized as Best Supporting Actress, with an additional win for Best Original Song.
The Academy’s Reasons and Reaction
The Academy, led by president Janet Yang and executive Kramer, responded regarding this year’s invitations:
“We are thrilled to invite this esteemed class of artists, technologists, and professionals to join the Academy. Through their commitment to filmmaking and to the greater movie industry, these exceptionally talented individuals have made indelible contributions to our global filmmaking community.”
—Kramer and Janet Yang, Academy President
The process for expanding Academy membership reflects ongoing debates over inclusivity and recognition. Although Oscar nominees often receive consideration, the final decision rests with the Board of Governors, who can exercise discretion.
What This Means for the Future of the Academy
The announcement of the new class highlights both progress and persistent challenges within the Academy, as it balances new voices and established talents with ongoing scrutiny over membership decisions. As Aubrey Plaza and other new members join for the next Oscars cycle, the snub of Karla Sofía Gascón may influence continued discussions about diversity, fairness, and representation in the film industry.
