Golden Globes 2026 Makes History With First-Ever Best Podcast Category | Full List of Nominees
For the first time in its eight-decade history, the Golden Globes—long recognised as one of Hollywood’s most glamorous and culturally influential celebrations—has officially embraced the world of audio storytelling. With the announcement of nominees for the 83rd Annual Golden Globes, the ceremony signals a landmark shift by introducing a brand-new category: Best Podcast.
This bold expansion marks a significant moment for the entertainment industry, solidifying podcasting as a global creative force and acknowledging the enormous impact audio creators have made on culture, conversation, and the wider media landscape.
The inaugural shortlist features six powerhouse shows that have dominated charts, sparked global discussions, and redefined the podcasting format. And with millions tuning in weekly, these shows demonstrate that influence is no longer confined to screens—audio is now equally worthy of elite recognition.
A New Era Begins: Why the Golden Globes Added a Podcast Category
Podcasting Joins the Global Stage
Traditionally celebrated as “Hollywood’s Party of the Year,” the Golden Globes have long held a reputation for spotlighting excellence in film and television. But 2025 marks a turning point. Driven by years of meteoric growth in the audio industry, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) has formally introduced Best Podcast, acknowledging the enormous cultural footprint of digital audio.
A Reflection of Cultural Evolution
This addition comes at a pivotal time:
Podcast listenership now reaches over 500 million monthly listeners worldwide.
Major studios and streaming giants have invested heavily in original audio programming.
Podcasts have become a launchpad for TV deals, documentaries, books, and live touring.
Celebrities, journalists, comedians, and thought leaders increasingly choose audio to shape public discourse.
The category’s introduction signals that podcasting is no longer “alternative media”—it is a mainstream entertainment powerhouse.
Meet the First-Ever Golden Globe Nominees for Best Podcast
The six inaugural nominees present a diverse cross-section of the audio landscape, representing celebrity-driven formats, journalistic storytelling, cultural commentary, and long-running chart successes.
1. Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard (Wondery)
Hosted by actor and filmmaker Dax Shepard, this podcast is renowned for its intimate, emotionally rich, and often humorous interviews. Featuring celebrities, psychologists, authors, politicians, and public figures, Armchair Expert dives deep into human behavior, vulnerability, and the complexities of modern life.
Why It Stands Out
Extremely loyal global fanbase
High-profile guests including Kristen Bell, Barack Obama, Bill Gates, and Jennifer Lawrence
A pioneer of long-form conversation in the podcast space
Known for transparency around mental health, relationships, and personal growth
2. Call Her Daddy (SiriusXM)
Originally launched as a comedic, candid show centered on relationships and dating culture, Call Her Daddy has transformed into a cultural phenomenon under host Alex Cooper. Now backed by SiriusXM, the show blends celebrity interviews, social commentary, and vulnerable discussions around identity, sexuality, and mental health.
What Makes It a Contender
One of the highest-earning podcasts globally
High-impact interviews with Hailey Bieber, Jane Fonda, Miley Cyrus, Emily Ratajkowski, and more
A unique blend of emotional depth and unfiltered conversation
A devoted Gen Z and millennial listenership
3. Good Hang with Amy Poehler (Spotify)
Comedian, actress, producer, and writer Amy Poehler brings her signature warmth and wit to Good Hang, a conversational escape into humor, creativity, and everyday life. With a blend of interviews, storytelling, and comedy, Poehler’s podcast quickly became a major hit.
Its Golden Globe Potential
Multi-award-winning comedian at the helm
Guest line-up includes Hollywood stars, writers, and cultural icons
Consistently charts across Spotify’s global rankings
Lauded for its mix of lightheartedness and meaningful reflection
4. The Mel Robbins Podcast (SiriusXM)
Hosted by motivational powerhouse Mel Robbins, this show is known for its practical advice, science-backed strategies, and emotionally resonant discussions around mindset, productivity, and personal wellbeing.
Why It Resonates
Large international following
Real-life coaching moments and advice-driven episodes
Viral clips on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram
Delivery that blends empathy, psychology, and empowerment
5. SmartLess (SiriusXM)
Featuring the hugely popular trio Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, SmartLess has become a cultural staple known for surprise guests and comedic chemistry. Each episode brings in an unknown guest (unknown to two of the hosts) for unscripted conversations packed with humor and sincerity.
Reasons It’s a Fan Favourite
Massive listenership and constant chart dominance
Guests including George Clooney, Robert Downey Jr., Bono, Jennifer Aniston
A unique format that keeps episodes fresh, funny, and unpredictable
A global live tour that elevated podcasting to new entertainment heights
6. Up First (NPR)
NPR’s flagship daily news podcast delivers the top stories of the day in a concise, factual, and accessible format. Up First has become an essential morning ritual for millions seeking credible, fast, and clear journalism.
Why It Earned a Nomination
Trusted by listeners worldwide for credible news
A staple in global podcast charts
Offers clarity during political, environmental, and economic complexity
Represents journalistic integrity and public service in audio form
Why Podcasting Deserves a Golden Globe Category
The inclusion of the Best Podcast category is more than a symbolic gesture—it reflects tangible transformation.
1. Massive Audience Growth
Podcast listeners have surged in the last decade from 100 million to over 500 million globally.
Smartphones, smart speakers, and in-car streaming make audio content more accessible than ever.
2. Cross-Platform Power
Many of the nominated shows have:
TV adaptations
Book deals
Live tours
Merchandise and community-driven events
Blockbuster sponsorship deals with major brands
3. A Storytelling Renaissance
Audio offers something unique:
Intimacy
Long-form depth
Space for vulnerability
A one-on-one connection with listeners
Hollywood has taken notice.
Impact on the Entertainment Industry
The addition of podcasts is expected to ripple through the industry in significant ways.
Boost for Creators
Independent creators now have a path toward one of the world’s most prestigious awards. This recognition could inspire:
New investments
Higher production quality
More diverse storytelling
Stronger representation for marginalised voices
Shift in Audience Attention
Podcasts command long listening times—often more than TV episodes. The industry increasingly sees podcasts as:
Low-barrier testing grounds for new IP
Development pipelines for scripted series and documentaries
Influential cultural platforms
Industry Validation
By acknowledging the medium at the Golden Globe level, podcasting is no longer a “digital side project”—it is an officially recognised art form.
Global Reaction to the Announcement
Industry Leaders Applaud the Move
Publishers, audio companies, and creators have widely praised the decision, calling it overdue and transformational. Many say it will elevate the medium to new heights, similar to how Netflix reshaped streaming recognition a decade ago.
Fans Celebrate the Nominees
Social media erupted with excitement as fans championed their favourite nominees, with many speculating on who will take home the first-ever Golden Globe for podcasting.
How Podcasts Connect to Film, TV, and Live Entertainment
A significant number of the shortlisted shows have deep ties to Hollywood:
SmartLess: Hosted by three Hollywood actors
Good Hang: Led by Amy Poehler, a TV icon
Armchair Expert: Frequently features actors, directors, and celebrities
Call Her Daddy: Features celebrity interviews
Up First: Regularly shapes TV news conversations
This integration makes podcasting an essential part of the broader entertainment ecosystem.
How to Watch the Nomination Announcement
Fans can view the official nominations announcement on YouTube, with full details available at goldenglobes.com.
The ceremony will take place in Hollywood on Sunday, 11 January 2026, marking a historic night for film, television, and now—podcasting.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for the Future of Audio
The Golden Globes’ recognition may encourage:
The creation of new awards categories across other major ceremonies
Increased budgets for podcast production
Greater cross-collaboration with film and TV studios
Further global expansion of podcast platforms
Celebrity involvement at unprecedented levels
2025 has officially become the year that podcasting stepped onto the red carpet.
Conclusion
The Golden Globes’ introduction of a Best Podcast category is a landmark moment for the entertainment industry. It acknowledges the undeniable cultural influence, creative power, and global reach of podcasting. With six standout nominees, the stage is set for a thrilling and historic awards night.
As Hollywood evolves, audio storytelling stands side-by-side with film and television—equally important, equally influential, and finally, equally celebrated.
