The Academy selects members based on
their professional qualifications, with a commitment to representation,
inclusion, and equity.Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, Ariana Grande Join Oscars Academy 2025.
Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, and Ariana Grande Among 534 Invited to Join Oscars Academy for 2026 Voting.
Introduction
On June 26, 2025, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced the invitation of 534 distinguished artists, filmmakers, and industry professionals to join its prestigious ranks, a move that underscores its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and global representation in cinema.
Ayushmann Khurrana: The Voice of Socially Relevant Cinema
Ayushmann Khurrana, known for his bold and unconventional role choices, has carved a niche in Bollywood with films like Andhadhun (2018), Article 15 (2019), Vicky Donor (2012), and Bala (2019). His ability to blend entertainment with social commentary has earned him critical and commercial success, positioning him as one of India’s most versatile leading men. Khurrana, invited to the Actors’ Branch, becomes the third Indian actor to receive this honor, following Suriya and Haasan.
Khurrana expressed his gratitude for the invitation, stating, “I’m honored to represent India on this prestigious platform and contribute to the global cinematic narrative.” His upcoming projects, including Thama, a romantic horror comedy, and an untitled spy comedy with Sara Ali Khan, underscore his continued commitment to innovative storytelling. Khurrana’s journey from winning MTV Roadies in 2004 to becoming an Oscar voter reflects his remarkable rise in the industry.
Other Indian Invitees
The 2025 class includes several other Indian talents, showcasing the depth of the country’s cinematic contributions:
· Payal Kapadia (Writers’ Branch): The filmmaker made history with All We Imagine as Light, which won the Grand Prix at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, the first Indian film to achieve this honor. Her invitation reflects her growing global influence.
· Karan Mally (Casting Directors’ Branch): Known for Gully Boy and Toofaan, Mally’s work has elevated Indian cinema’s casting standards.
· Ranabir Das (Cinematographers’ Branch): Das, who shot A Night of Knowing Nothing, brings technical excellence to the Academy.
· Maxima Basu (Costume Designers’ Branch): Her work on Bajirao Mastani highlights her ability to blend historical authenticity with visual splendor.
· Smriti Mundhra (Documentary Branch): Mundhra, known for I Am Ready, Warden, was invited to multiple branches, reflecting her versatility.
These invitees represent a cross-section of Indian cinema, from mainstream Bollywood to regional and independent filmmaking, signaling the Academy’s appreciation for India’s diverse cinematic landscape.
Global Stars in the 2025 Class
Ariana Grande: From Pop Stardom to Cinematic Influence
Ariana Grande, the Grammy-winning singer and actor, joins the Actors’ Branch for her roles in Wicked (2024) and Don’t Look Up (2021). Her transition from music to film has been met with critical praise, particularly for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, which has positioned her as a rising star in Hollywood. Grande’s inclusion alongside Haasan and Khurrana highlights the Academy’s embrace of multifaceted talents who bridge music and cinema.
Ayushmann Khurrana
· Notable Works: Andhadhun, Article 15, Vicky Donor, Bala
· Contribution: Khurrana’s socially relevant films have redefined Bollywood, addressing issues like infertility, caste discrimination, and baldness with humor and empathy.
· Impact: His inclusion empowers younger actors to prioritize content-driven cinema.
Payal Kapadia
· Notable Works: All We Imagine as Light, A Night of Knowing Nothing
· Contribution: Kapadia’s Cannes-winning film has redefined Indian independent cinema, blending poetic storytelling with social commentary.
· Impact: Her invitation highlights the global rise of Indian women filmmakers.
The Academy’s invitation of 534 new members, including Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, Ariana Grande, and others, marks a pivotal moment in its ongoing mission to diversify and globalize its membership. For Indian cinema, the inclusion of seven talents across acting, writing, cinematography, and costume design signals a growing recognition of its contributions to global storytelling.
Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, and Ariana Grande Among 534 Invited to Join Oscars Academy for 2026 Voting.
Introduction
On June 26, 2025, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced the invitation of 534 distinguished artists, filmmakers, and industry professionals to join its prestigious ranks, a move that underscores its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and global representation in cinema.
Among the notable invitees are Indian cinema icons Kamal Haasan and Ayushmann Khurrana, alongside global stars like Ariana Grande, Sebastian Stan, Jeremy Strong, and others.
This diverse cohort, representing 60 countries and territories, includes actors, directors, writers, cinematographers, costume designers, and more, all recognized for their exceptional contributions to the art and science of filmmaking. If all invitees accept, the Academy’s membership will grow to 11,120, with 10,143 eligible to vote for the 98th Academy Awards, set for March 15, 2026. This article explores the significance of this milestone, profiles key Indian and international invitees, and examines the Academy’s evolving approach to membership and diversity.
The Academy’s 2025 Class: A Global Celebration of Talent
The Academy’s 2025 invitation list is its largest since 2020, when it welcomed 928 new members as part of its response to the #OscarsSoWhite movement. This year’s cohort of 534 includes 91 Oscar nominees, 26 winners, and three recipients of Scientific and Technical Awards, reflecting a broad spectrum of talent across 19 branches and one membership classification (Associates). The Academy’s selection process prioritizes professional qualifications while emphasizing representation, inclusion, and equity, with 41% of invitees being women, 45% from underrepresented communities, and 55% from 60 countries outside the United States.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their enthusiasm in a joint statement: “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.” This commitment to diversity is evident in the inclusion of Indian talents like Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, Payal Kapadia, Karan Mally, Ranabir Das, Maxima Basu, and Smriti Mundhra, alongside international luminaries such as Ariana Grande, Jason Momoa, and Kieran Culkin.
Indian Cinema in the Spotlight
Kamal Haasan: A Legendary Figure in Global Cinema
Kamal Haasan, a veteran actor, filmmaker, and cultural icon, is one of India’s most revered cinematic figures. With a career spanning over six decades, Haasan has starred in and directed landmark films such as Nayakan (1987) and Vikram (2022), earning global acclaim for his versatility and innovative storytelling. His invitation to the Actors’ Branch is a testament to his enduring influence, making him the second Indian actor to receive this честь, following Suriya in 2022.
Haasan’s recent project, Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, received mixed reviews and faced commercial challenges, but his legacy remains untarnished. Films like Nayakan, often cited as one of India’s greatest cinematic achievements, have resonated with audiences worldwide, drawing comparisons to The Godfather for its portrayal of a reluctant gangster. Social media reactions to Haasan’s invitation were overwhelmingly positive, with fans on X noting, “Proud moment for Indians, Tamilians, and especially Kamalians,” and “Suriya in 2022 and this year Kamal... So appropriate.”
Haasan’s inclusion not only elevates Indian cinema’s global profile but also highlights the Academy’s recognition of non-Bollywood industries, as Haasan is a stalwart of Tamil cinema. His multifaceted contributions as an actor, director, writer, and producer make him a fitting addition to the Academy’s voting body.
The Academy’s 2025 Class: A Global Celebration of Talent
The Academy’s 2025 invitation list is its largest since 2020, when it welcomed 928 new members as part of its response to the #OscarsSoWhite movement. This year’s cohort of 534 includes 91 Oscar nominees, 26 winners, and three recipients of Scientific and Technical Awards, reflecting a broad spectrum of talent across 19 branches and one membership classification (Associates). The Academy’s selection process prioritizes professional qualifications while emphasizing representation, inclusion, and equity, with 41% of invitees being women, 45% from underrepresented communities, and 55% from 60 countries outside the United States.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their enthusiasm in a joint statement: “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.” This commitment to diversity is evident in the inclusion of Indian talents like Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, Payal Kapadia, Karan Mally, Ranabir Das, Maxima Basu, and Smriti Mundhra, alongside international luminaries such as Ariana Grande, Jason Momoa, and Kieran Culkin.
Indian Cinema in the Spotlight
Kamal Haasan: A Legendary Figure in Global Cinema
Kamal Haasan, a veteran actor, filmmaker, and cultural icon, is one of India’s most revered cinematic figures. With a career spanning over six decades, Haasan has starred in and directed landmark films such as Nayakan (1987) and Vikram (2022), earning global acclaim for his versatility and innovative storytelling. His invitation to the Actors’ Branch is a testament to his enduring influence, making him the second Indian actor to receive this честь, following Suriya in 2022.
Haasan’s recent project, Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, received mixed reviews and faced commercial challenges, but his legacy remains untarnished. Films like Nayakan, often cited as one of India’s greatest cinematic achievements, have resonated with audiences worldwide, drawing comparisons to The Godfather for its portrayal of a reluctant gangster. Social media reactions to Haasan’s invitation were overwhelmingly positive, with fans on X noting, “Proud moment for Indians, Tamilians, and especially Kamalians,” and “Suriya in 2022 and this year Kamal... So appropriate.”
Haasan’s inclusion not only elevates Indian cinema’s global profile but also highlights the Academy’s recognition of non-Bollywood industries, as Haasan is a stalwart of Tamil cinema. His multifaceted contributions as an actor, director, writer, and producer make him a fitting addition to the Academy’s voting body.
Ayushmann Khurrana: The Voice of Socially Relevant Cinema
Ayushmann Khurrana, known for his bold and unconventional role choices, has carved a niche in Bollywood with films like Andhadhun (2018), Article 15 (2019), Vicky Donor (2012), and Bala (2019). His ability to blend entertainment with social commentary has earned him critical and commercial success, positioning him as one of India’s most versatile leading men. Khurrana, invited to the Actors’ Branch, becomes the third Indian actor to receive this honor, following Suriya and Haasan.
Khurrana expressed his gratitude for the invitation, stating, “I’m honored to represent India on this prestigious platform and contribute to the global cinematic narrative.” His upcoming projects, including Thama, a romantic horror comedy, and an untitled spy comedy with Sara Ali Khan, underscore his continued commitment to innovative storytelling. Khurrana’s journey from winning MTV Roadies in 2004 to becoming an Oscar voter reflects his remarkable rise in the industry.
Other Indian Invitees
The 2025 class includes several other Indian talents, showcasing the depth of the country’s cinematic contributions:
· Payal Kapadia (Writers’ Branch): The filmmaker made history with All We Imagine as Light, which won the Grand Prix at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, the first Indian film to achieve this honor. Her invitation reflects her growing global influence.
· Karan Mally (Casting Directors’ Branch): Known for Gully Boy and Toofaan, Mally’s work has elevated Indian cinema’s casting standards.
· Ranabir Das (Cinematographers’ Branch): Das, who shot A Night of Knowing Nothing, brings technical excellence to the Academy.
· Maxima Basu (Costume Designers’ Branch): Her work on Bajirao Mastani highlights her ability to blend historical authenticity with visual splendor.
· Smriti Mundhra (Documentary Branch): Mundhra, known for I Am Ready, Warden, was invited to multiple branches, reflecting her versatility.
These invitees represent a cross-section of Indian cinema, from mainstream Bollywood to regional and independent filmmaking, signaling the Academy’s appreciation for India’s diverse cinematic landscape.
Global Stars in the 2025 Class
Ariana Grande: From Pop Stardom to Cinematic Influence
Ariana Grande, the Grammy-winning singer and actor, joins the Actors’ Branch for her roles in Wicked (2024) and Don’t Look Up (2021). Her transition from music to film has been met with critical praise, particularly for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, which has positioned her as a rising star in Hollywood. Grande’s inclusion alongside Haasan and Khurrana highlights the Academy’s embrace of multifaceted talents who bridge music and cinema.
Other Notable International Invitees
The 2025 class features a stellar lineup of global talent:
· Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong (Actors’ Branch): Both starred in The Apprentice, with Strong also known for Succession and Stan for A Different Man.
· Kieran Culkin (Actors’ Branch): The Succession star and recent Oscar winner for A Real Pain adds depth to the acting cohort.
· Mikey Madison (Actors’ Branch): An Oscar winner for Anora, Madison’s breakout performance has cemented her status as a rising star.
· Jason Momoa (Actors’ Branch): Known for Dune and Aquaman, Momoa brings blockbuster appeal to the Academy.
· Gillian Anderson, Jodie Comer, and Aubrey Plaza (Actors’ Branch): These actresses, known for The X-Files, Killing Eve, and Emily the Criminal, respectively, add versatility to the roster.
· Conan O’Brien and Jimmy Kimmel (Associates): As past Oscar hosts, they join as non-voting members, recognized for their contributions to the industry.
The inclusion of such a diverse group underscores the Academy’s effort to balance mainstream appeal with artistic excellence, drawing from both Hollywood blockbusters and indie gems.
The Academy’s Membership Process
Unlike typical organizations, the Academy does not accept applications for membership. Candidates, except for Associates, must be sponsored by two existing members from the same branch or category. Oscar nominees are automatically considered in their nomination year, bypassing the sponsorship requirement. The selection process involves scrutiny by branch executive committees and final approval by the Board of Governors, ensuring that only those with significant contributions are invited.
The 2025 class includes 12 individuals invited by multiple branches, such as Payal Kapadia, Smriti Mundhra, and directors like Brady Corbet (The Brutalist) and Coralie Fargeat (The Substance), who must choose one branch. This flexibility reflects the Academy’s recognition of multidisciplinary talents. If all invitees accept, the Academy will have 11,120 members, with 10,143 eligible to vote for the Oscars.
The Academy’s commitment to diversity is evident in its demographics: 41% women, 45% from underrepresented communities, and 55% from international territories. This aligns with its response to the #OscarsSoWhite controversy, which prompted larger and more diverse invitation classes starting in 2016.
The Significance of the 2025 Invitations
Elevating Indian Cinema
The invitation of Haasan, Khurrana, Kapadia, and others marks a significant moment for Indian cinema on the global stage. Historically, Indian representation in the Academy has been limited, with only a few actors like Suriya (2022) and veterans like Shabana Azmi and SS Rajamouli joining in recent years. The 2025 class, with seven Indian invitees, reflects the growing influence of Indian films, particularly after successes like RRR (2022) and All We Imagine as Light (2024).
Social media reactions on X captured the excitement, with posts like “Indian cinema shines as #KamalHaasan and #AyushmannKhurrana join the #Academy” and “Wow, that’s awesome!” celebrating Kapadia’s inclusion. These invitations not only honor individual achievements but also signal the Academy’s recognition of India’s diverse film industries, from Tamil and Hindi cinema to independent documentaries.
The 2025 class features a stellar lineup of global talent:
· Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong (Actors’ Branch): Both starred in The Apprentice, with Strong also known for Succession and Stan for A Different Man.
· Kieran Culkin (Actors’ Branch): The Succession star and recent Oscar winner for A Real Pain adds depth to the acting cohort.
· Mikey Madison (Actors’ Branch): An Oscar winner for Anora, Madison’s breakout performance has cemented her status as a rising star.
· Jason Momoa (Actors’ Branch): Known for Dune and Aquaman, Momoa brings blockbuster appeal to the Academy.
· Gillian Anderson, Jodie Comer, and Aubrey Plaza (Actors’ Branch): These actresses, known for The X-Files, Killing Eve, and Emily the Criminal, respectively, add versatility to the roster.
· Conan O’Brien and Jimmy Kimmel (Associates): As past Oscar hosts, they join as non-voting members, recognized for their contributions to the industry.
The inclusion of such a diverse group underscores the Academy’s effort to balance mainstream appeal with artistic excellence, drawing from both Hollywood blockbusters and indie gems.
The Academy’s Membership Process
Unlike typical organizations, the Academy does not accept applications for membership. Candidates, except for Associates, must be sponsored by two existing members from the same branch or category. Oscar nominees are automatically considered in their nomination year, bypassing the sponsorship requirement. The selection process involves scrutiny by branch executive committees and final approval by the Board of Governors, ensuring that only those with significant contributions are invited.
The 2025 class includes 12 individuals invited by multiple branches, such as Payal Kapadia, Smriti Mundhra, and directors like Brady Corbet (The Brutalist) and Coralie Fargeat (The Substance), who must choose one branch. This flexibility reflects the Academy’s recognition of multidisciplinary talents. If all invitees accept, the Academy will have 11,120 members, with 10,143 eligible to vote for the Oscars.
The Academy’s commitment to diversity is evident in its demographics: 41% women, 45% from underrepresented communities, and 55% from international territories. This aligns with its response to the #OscarsSoWhite controversy, which prompted larger and more diverse invitation classes starting in 2016.
The Significance of the 2025 Invitations
Elevating Indian Cinema
The invitation of Haasan, Khurrana, Kapadia, and others marks a significant moment for Indian cinema on the global stage. Historically, Indian representation in the Academy has been limited, with only a few actors like Suriya (2022) and veterans like Shabana Azmi and SS Rajamouli joining in recent years. The 2025 class, with seven Indian invitees, reflects the growing influence of Indian films, particularly after successes like RRR (2022) and All We Imagine as Light (2024).
Social media reactions on X captured the excitement, with posts like “Indian cinema shines as #KamalHaasan and #AyushmannKhurrana join the #Academy” and “Wow, that’s awesome!” celebrating Kapadia’s inclusion. These invitations not only honor individual achievements but also signal the Academy’s recognition of India’s diverse film industries, from Tamil and Hindi cinema to independent documentaries.
Global Diversity and Inclusion
The 2025 class continues the Academy’s push for inclusivity, building on efforts sparked by the #OscarsSoWhite movement. The inclusion of 55% international members and 45% from underrepresented communities reflects a deliberate effort to diversify the voting body. However, the absence of Karla Sofía Gascón, the first trans woman nominated for Best Actress (Emilia Pérez), due to controversy over past tweets, highlights the challenges of navigating inclusivity amid public scrutiny.
The Academy’s focus on global talent is also evident in invitees like Adriana Paz (Emilia Pérez), Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here), and Hamdan Ballal, a Palestinian filmmaker who faced detention after winning an Oscar for No Other Land. These selections underscore the Academy’s commitment to amplifying voices from marginalized communities and conflict zones.
The Road to Oscars 2026
The 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 15, 2026, will be hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien, promising a lively and engaging ceremony. Nominations voting will run from January 12 to January 16, with nominees announced on January 22, followed by the Oscar Nominees Luncheon on February 10. The inclusion of new members like Haasan, Khurrana, and Grande will influence the voting process, potentially shaping the outcomes for films and performances in a year already marked by strong contenders like Anora, The Apprentice, and All We Imagine as Light.
The Academy’s new rule requiring voters to watch all nominated films before voting has sparked online debate, with some questioning its enforcement, as noted in posts like “‘Were they just voting on vibes?’: Oscar's new rule sparks online confusion.” This rule aims to ensure informed voting, and the diverse 2025 class will play a crucial role in upholding this standard.
Profiles of Key Invitees
Kamal Haasan
· Notable Works: Nayakan, Vikram, Indian, Hey Ram
· Contribution: A pioneer of Indian cinema, Haasan’s performances and directorial ventures have pushed boundaries, blending art-house and commercial sensibilities.
· Impact: His invitation elevates Tamil cinema’s global visibility and inspires younger filmmakers.
The 2025 class continues the Academy’s push for inclusivity, building on efforts sparked by the #OscarsSoWhite movement. The inclusion of 55% international members and 45% from underrepresented communities reflects a deliberate effort to diversify the voting body. However, the absence of Karla Sofía Gascón, the first trans woman nominated for Best Actress (Emilia Pérez), due to controversy over past tweets, highlights the challenges of navigating inclusivity amid public scrutiny.
The Academy’s focus on global talent is also evident in invitees like Adriana Paz (Emilia Pérez), Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here), and Hamdan Ballal, a Palestinian filmmaker who faced detention after winning an Oscar for No Other Land. These selections underscore the Academy’s commitment to amplifying voices from marginalized communities and conflict zones.
The Road to Oscars 2026
The 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 15, 2026, will be hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien, promising a lively and engaging ceremony. Nominations voting will run from January 12 to January 16, with nominees announced on January 22, followed by the Oscar Nominees Luncheon on February 10. The inclusion of new members like Haasan, Khurrana, and Grande will influence the voting process, potentially shaping the outcomes for films and performances in a year already marked by strong contenders like Anora, The Apprentice, and All We Imagine as Light.
The Academy’s new rule requiring voters to watch all nominated films before voting has sparked online debate, with some questioning its enforcement, as noted in posts like “‘Were they just voting on vibes?’: Oscar's new rule sparks online confusion.” This rule aims to ensure informed voting, and the diverse 2025 class will play a crucial role in upholding this standard.
Profiles of Key Invitees
Kamal Haasan
· Notable Works: Nayakan, Vikram, Indian, Hey Ram
· Contribution: A pioneer of Indian cinema, Haasan’s performances and directorial ventures have pushed boundaries, blending art-house and commercial sensibilities.
· Impact: His invitation elevates Tamil cinema’s global visibility and inspires younger filmmakers.
Ayushmann Khurrana
· Notable Works: Andhadhun, Article 15, Vicky Donor, Bala
· Contribution: Khurrana’s socially relevant films have redefined Bollywood, addressing issues like infertility, caste discrimination, and baldness with humor and empathy.
· Impact: His inclusion empowers younger actors to prioritize content-driven cinema.
Ariana Grande
· Notable Works: Wicked, Don’t Look Up
· Contribution: Grande’s transition from pop music to acting showcases her versatility, with Wicked earning her critical acclaim.
· Impact: Her presence bridges music and film, appealing to younger audiences.
· Notable Works: Wicked, Don’t Look Up
· Contribution: Grande’s transition from pop music to acting showcases her versatility, with Wicked earning her critical acclaim.
· Impact: Her presence bridges music and film, appealing to younger audiences.
Payal Kapadia
· Notable Works: All We Imagine as Light, A Night of Knowing Nothing
· Contribution: Kapadia’s Cannes-winning film has redefined Indian independent cinema, blending poetic storytelling with social commentary.
· Impact: Her invitation highlights the global rise of Indian women filmmakers.
The Academy’s invitation of 534 new members, including Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, Ariana Grande, and others, marks a pivotal moment in its ongoing mission to diversify and globalize its membership. For Indian cinema, the inclusion of seven talents across acting, writing, cinematography, and costume design signals a growing recognition of its contributions to global storytelling.
As the Oscars 2026 approach, these new members will play a vital role in shaping the future of cinema, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are celebrated on the world’s most prestigious cinematic stage. The Academy’s commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity, combined with the exceptional talent of its 2025 class, promises a vibrant and inclusive future for the Oscars.
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