As the Oscars ceremony unfolds this March 15, audiences will be greeted with an exciting addition—a fresh category making its debut for the first time since Best Animated Feature was introduced in 2001.

This newly introduced category shines a spotlight on a crucial, albeit often overlooked, aspect of filmmaking: casting. After a script is penned, it’s the casting directors who bring the characters to life by selecting the perfect actors for each role.

In a groundbreaking move, the Oscars will now honor excellence in casting. Among the nominees for this inaugural award is Jennifer Venditti, recognized for her work on “Marty Supreme.” During a conversation at the recent Oscars Nominees Luncheon, Venditti expressed that this recognition has been a long-awaited milestone.

“It’s an emotional moment for me,” Venditti shared, “because many remarkable individuals have paved the way for this recognition, campaigning tirelessly to see this category finally acknowledged.”

The role of a casting director is one that many outside the film industry may overlook or misunderstand.

Venditti humorously explained, “My fascination with casting began with an obsession with people-watching. I often joke that I’m thrilled to be on jury duty. I love the DMV and all those places others dread,” she laughed.

The cast of “Marty Supreme” includes A-list names like Timothée Chalamet and Gwyneth Paltrow but it’s the names you may not know that thrill a casting director. “Odessa A’zion, who I’m just so excited for the world to be able to see what an incredible actress she is and what a bright light,” Venditti said.

She’s also the one who has to let people know when they’re not chosen for a role.

“But the great part of the story is that happened with Odessa,” Venditti said. “I met her originally for a show I did called ‘Euphoria’ and she wasn’t right, you know? And it’s six years later, she was right!”

Venditti will be in great company on Oscar night, competing with the casting directors from “Hamnet,” “One Battle After Another,” “Sinners” and “The Secret Agent.”

You’ll see it all Sunday, March 15 on ABC.

FULL LIST: See the full list of nominees for the 2026 Oscars