The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has approved sweeping rule changes for the 99th Oscars in 2027, introducing a landmark shift in acting categories. Performers may now receive multiple nominations in the same category if their performances rank among the top five vote‑getters, aligning acting races with the rest of the ballot and curbing long‑criticized “category fraud.” Under the old system, only the higher‑vote‑getting performance was retained, with the other discarded. The change recalls past controversies, such as Kate Winslet’s 2008 campaign for Revolutionary Road and The Reader, where strategic category placement shaped outcomes. The Academy’s move signals evolving standards around eligibility, authorship, and global inclusion, reflecting its effort to modernize the awards process.
The acting rule mechanism dates back to the earliest days of the Oscars, with the last major change occurring in 1945 after Barry Fitzgerald uniquely received both lead and supporting nominations for the same role in Going My Way. The new framework ensures that actors with multiple acclaimed performances in a single year will be recognized without forced category shifts. Industry observers note that the update could reshape campaigning strategies and voting dynamics, while reinforcing fairness and transparency in the awards process. As the Academy prepares for its 99th ceremony, the reforms highlight its intent to adapt to contemporary challenges and maintain the Oscars’ relevance in a rapidly evolving global film landscape.