Heated Rivalry, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Pitt, Mussolini: Son of the Century, Pluribus, The Rehearsal, and Death by Lightning are some of the nominees for the 2026 Peabody Awards.
Other notable nominees include Adolescence, Andor, Dying for Sex, Mo, Forever, and Sly Lives!
(a.k.a. The Burden of Black Genius).
The Peabody board of jurors announced these nominations in the arts, children’s/youth, entertainment, and interactive and immersive categories.
They had previously shared the documentary, news, public service, and radio/podcast nominees on Tuesday.
Heated Rivalry was nominated after the queer hockey drama aired on HBO Max during the holidays and became very popular.
The show helped stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie gain a lot of attention. Jimmy Kimmel was nominated after his show was briefly taken off the air by ABC last fall because of some controversial comments about Charlie Kirk’s murder. Many people in Hollywood supported Kimmel, and he has become a supporter of free speech since that incident.
The Peabody nods are the latest awards for The Pitt, Adolescence, Andor, Death by Lightning, Dying for Sex, Forever, Mussolini, Pluribus, and The Rehearsal.
These nominees were selected by a group of 28 jurors who unanimously voted from over 1,000 entries.
They were chosen to recognize powerful storytelling in broadcast and streaming media.
The winners of the Peabody Awards will be announced on April 23 and celebrated on May 31 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles.
In addition to the awards, the Peabodys will honor Amy Poehler, Sterlin Harjo, James L. Brooks, and PBS Kids with special recognition.
Jeffrey Jones, the Peabody executive director, said, “These nominees show the power of storytelling at its most urgent and expansive, where art, entertainment, and innovation meet the biggest issues of our time.
From identity and mental health to political extremism and systemic inequality, this work reflects exactly what the Peabody Awards stand for: stories that challenge, illuminate, and push culture forward.”
These nominees reflect the issues of our time and ask us to be more engaged.
A full list of the 2026 Peabody Awards nominees in the arts, children’s/youth, entertainment, and interactive and immersive categories, with descriptions from the Peabody organization, is provided below.
ARTS
Fela Kuti: Fear No Man
Fela Kuti: Fear No Man is a podcast series hosted by Jad Abumrad that looks at the life and influence of Fela Kuti.
It uses creative sound design and over 200 interviews to show how the musician helped shape post-colonial Nigeria and the African independence movement. The series mixes personal stories with larger cultural and political themes, showing the power of art and activism. It has already been praised and is now being used in schools.
Sly Lives! (also known as The Burden of Black Genius) (Hulu, Onyx Collective)
This documentary looks at the life and achievements of Sly Stone and his band, Sly & the Family Stone, while also discussing the challenges Black artists face when they become successful.
The film includes interviews with other famous musicians to show the emotional and social difficulties they deal with, and it highlights the need for understanding and compassion when recognizing 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’s limited series Adolescence tells the story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper), who is arrested for killing his female classmate.
The series uses four single-take episodes to explore the complexity of his actions and how they affect others. It is praised for its unique storytelling and emotional depth, and it brings up important topics like the manosphere and how social media influences young people, sparking conversations about digital safety and the lives of today’s youth.
Warp Films, Matriarch Productions and Plan B for Netflix
Andor (Disney+)
Lucasfilm’s political thriller series is a prequel to the Star Wars film Rogue One.
It follows Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) as he evolves from a skeptical observer to a key leader in the rebel movement against the Empire. The show shows the personal choices and sacrifices that drive a revolution, and it presents both the rebels and the Empire with depth, showing how themes like oppression and resistance are still relevant today.
Lucasfilm Ltd.
Common Side Effects (Adult Swim)
Common Side Effects is about Marshall Cuso (voiced by Dave King), a mushroom expert in Peru who discovers a powerful fungus called "the Blue Angel" that could cure many diseases.
But he soon becomes the target of the DEA and big pharmaceutical companies. The series, which uses hand-drawn animation, deals with issues like wellness, corporate greed, and personal challenges, and it shows how people can work together to make a difference in a confusing world.
Green Street Pictures, Bandera Entertainment, and Williams Street
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"Death by Lightning" (Netflix)
This scripted series tells the story of President James Garfield (Michael Shannon), who overcame poverty to become president and was tragically killed just 119 days into his term.
The show contrasts Garfield’s life with that of his assassin, Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), and explores themes like political violence, mental illness, and being rejected by society. It highlights Garfield’s legacy in reforming civil service and shows how his story is still relevant in today’s political environment.
A Netflix Series / Bighead Littlehead
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Dying for Sex (FX / Hulu)
This series is based on a true story and follows Molly Kochan (Michelle Williams), a woman with terminal cancer who deals with her illness and past trauma.
The show mixes humor and deep honesty, challenging how people usually talk about death and sexuality. The creators worked with experts and people who have similar experiences to show the real complexities of living with cancer, and the series portrays a life filled with struggle and growth, encouraging people to face life’s truths instead of following strict societal rules.
20th Television
Forever (Netflix)
Netflix’s Forever is based on Judy Blume’s novel and retells the story of first love through the eyes of Justin (Michael Cooper Jr.) and Keisha (Lovie Simone)—two Black high school athletes in 2018 Los Angeles.
The show explores the pressures of success and mental health, especially through Justin’s undiagnosed ADHD and Keisha’s experience with trauma. It highlights the importance of unwavering support and shows how mental health issues intersect with race and class in today’s society.
A Netflix Series
Forever (Netflix)
Netflix’s Forever is based on Judy Blume’s novel and retells the story of first love through the eyes of Justin (Michael Cooper Jr.) and Keisha (Lovie Simone)—two Black high school athletes in 2018 Los Angeles.
The show explores the pressures of success and mental health, especially through Justin’s undiagnosed ADHD and Keisha’s experience with trauma. It highlights the importance of unwavering support and shows how mental health issues intersect with race and class in today’s society.
A Netflix Series
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
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“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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
